Holger Rune found unique inspiration ahead of his Barcelona Open final clash with Carlos Alcaraz—by studying Novak Djokovic’s Olympic victory over the Spaniard.
On Sunday, Rune stunned the top-seeded Alcaraz with a 7-6(6), 6-2 win, capturing his first ATP title in two years. The 21-year-old Dane hadn’t lifted a trophy since April 2023, making this his fifth ATP title overall and a long-awaited return to form.
Last summer, Alcaraz was favored to take Olympic gold, but Djokovic defeated him in straight sets, 7-6(3), 7-6(2). Reflecting on that match, Rune said he mentally replayed the Serbian legend’s approach.
“I told myself, ‘What did Novak do when he beat him?’ I kind of played it in my mind—the Olympic final. It was an amazing match,” Rune shared.
“I thought to myself, ‘Let’s try to play that kind of style.’”
Rune on Breaking His Title Drought
Since breaking into the top 10 in 2022 and winning a Masters 1000 title, Rune had struggled to maintain momentum. Sunday’s triumph marked a turning point.
“It means the world,” Rune said. “It was such a great match. At the start, I was a bit stressed because Carlos plays big-time tennis. I had to calm myself, breathe, and find my rhythm.
After he broke me, I settled into the match and started playing my game. That first set was a battle—it was crucial to win it and swing the momentum. I’m really proud of myself.”
With the victory, Rune—who came into the tournament ranked No. 13—will climb back into the ATP top 10, rising to World No. 9 in the next rankings update.
