Holger Rune disrupted expectations at the Barcelona Open final, defeating local favorite Carlos Alcaraz with a score of 7-6 (8-6), 6-2.
Rune ended his 13-match losing streak against top-five players, securing his first title since his Munich victory in 2023.
The Danish player recovered from an initial break in the first set, converting his fourth set point. He then dominated the second set, preventing Alcaraz, who took a medical timeout, from recovering.
`This victory means everything to me, it was an incredible match,` Rune commented. `Initially, I felt some pressure because Carlos is known for his exceptional tennis. I focused on deep breaths and finding my rhythm. After he broke my serve, I settled into the match and played my own game. Winning the first set, which was a real battle, was crucial for gaining momentum. I am very proud of my performance.`
Alcaraz started strong, breaking serve in the fifth game, but Rune quickly responded and became the dominant player, eventually winning the first set tie-break on his fifth set point.
In the second set, Alcaraz applied early pressure, but Rune resisted. It became apparent that Alcaraz was struggling when he requested a medical timeout.
Alcaraz`s last opportunity slipped away with two break points in the sixth game, allowing Rune to celebrate his fifth ATP Tour title.
Rune mentioned that he reflected on Alcaraz`s loss to Novak Djokovic in the Olympic final last summer to develop a winning strategy.
`After getting broken in the first set, I realized I didn’t need to aim for the lines on every shot,` Rune explained. `I considered: `What was Djokovic’s approach when he beat him?` I mentally revisited their Olympics final and tried to adopt that style, focusing on consistency. I am very pleased with my composure in crucial moments and my courage throughout the match.`
`Congratulations on a fantastic week,` Alcaraz said to Rune. `Coming from Monte Carlo where you had to withdraw, to come here to Barcelona and play such great tennis for everyone to enjoy… I appreciate that. We have known each other since we were 12. Time really flies. I am happy to see us both in this position, reflecting on how far we’ve come together. Congratulations again, and keep up the great work.`
Match Stats
Zverev Secures Third Munich Title
Alexander Zverev celebrated his birthday by winning the Munich Open final against American Ben Shelton, claiming a record-equaling third title.
The 28-year-old German, a crowd favorite, delivered a controlled performance to defeat second seed Shelton 6-2, 6-4. This victory marks his 24th career title and his first of the season. He had previously won this clay-court tournament in 2017 and 2018.
`Winning tournaments in Germany is always incredibly special,` Zverev stated, now matching Philipp Kohlschreiber’s record of three Munich titles. `It’s definitely a wonderful birthday gift, to say the least.`
Supported by enthusiastic home fans, the top seed dominated 22-year-old Shelton, breaking serve early to take control. He easily won the first set 6-2 and started the second set with another break to maintain his momentum.
`I knew I had to play my best tennis today, Ben has been playing exceptionally well this week,` Zverev acknowledged.
`The conditions here, hot and fast, suit him very well. They also suit my game, to be honest. I’ve really enjoyed my birthday so far.`
With Zverev`s win in Munich, Alcaraz will fall to third in the world rankings, behind Zverev, on Monday.
Ostapenko Reaches Stuttgart Final Against Sabalenka
Unseeded Jelena Ostapenko advanced to the Stuttgart Grand Prix final, defeating fellow unseeded player Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-4, 6-4.
The 27-year-old will compete against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, who worked hard to secure a 7-5, 6-4 victory over Italy’s Jasmine Paolini, reaching her fourth final in five years.
Ostapenko, a finalist in Qatar earlier this year, maintained pressure and cruised to victory after an early break in the second set.
`I’m not sure why, but I feel amazing playing here,` Ostapenko said. `I feel very energized. Winning these kinds of close matches boosts your confidence,` she added.
`I focused on keeping the ball in play consistently. I am very pleased with my performance.`
Sabalenka commented on Ostapenko: `She is playing excellent tennis right now, and regardless of past results, I will go out there tomorrow and fight as if it’s the first match, aiming for this beautiful car behind me. I really want this car.`
Madrid Open Preview
British players Jack Draper, Emma Raducanu, Katie Boulter, and Sonay Kartal are set to compete at the Madrid Open. Novak Djokovic will also return to action, with Andy Murray as his coach.
The Madrid Open will feature top tennis players competing for ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 titles.
