“I feel hunted”: Holger Rune expresses frustration after having to retire from Monte-Carlo Masters

Holger Rune has voiced his frustration following his injury-forced retirement at the Monte-Carlo Masters. The 21-year-old Danish star, currently ranked world No. 12, was trailing 6-2, 3-0 in his opening match against Portugal’s Nuno Borges before being forced to stop due to illness.

Taking to Instagram after the match, Rune wrote:

“I feel hunted with sickness. Unbearable not to be able to finish up in one of my absolute favourite tournaments.”

This latest setback adds to a rocky season for the Gentofte-born player, who entered the tournament on the heels of a first-round loss at the Miami Open, where he was defeated by American Reilly Opelka in three sets: 4-6, 6-3, 7-6.

Rune’s 2025 season has been inconsistent. Out of eight ATP events played, he has reached the quarterfinals or better only once. His standout performance came at Indian Wells, where he finished as runner-up, losing decisively in the final to Britain’s Jack Draper (6-2, 6-2).

After that loss, Rune reflected on missed chances and a lack of conviction in his game:

“I think I could have done my part better. I played wisely, but I didn’t fully commit to my aggressive game. That’s where I lost it. Jack played extremely well, but when I had chances to challenge him, I didn’t trust my shots enough.”

Rune remains one of the brightest young talents on the ATP Tour, but 2025 has so far tested his resilience. As he recovers from his latest illness, fans and analysts alike hope to see him return to full strength and rediscover his form.