Holger Rune, the 2022 Rolex Paris Masters champion, has reignited his form in the French capital, cruising past Alexander Bublik in straight sets (6-4, 6-2) in the first round.
Rune, seeded 13th, has fond memories of Paris, having stunned the tennis world two years ago by defeating five Top 10 players, including Novak Djokovic, to claim the title. Despite injuries and inconsistency since then, the 21-year-old Dane is eager to replicate his success.
“I always enjoy playing in Paris,” Rune said. “I have good memories, so I’m very blessed to be back.”
Rune’s victory over Bublik was a testament to his growing maturity and focus. The match began evenly, but Rune seized control in the ninth game of the first set, breaking Bublik’s serve after six deuces. He maintained his momentum in the second set, breaking Bublik twice to secure the victory in just 70 minutes.
Rune’s resurgence comes after a challenging season that saw him fall out of the Top 10 and part ways with coaches Boris Becker and Patrick Mouratoglou. However, he has reunited with former coach Lars Christensen and has shown signs of improvement in recent months.
“It’s been a decent season,” Rune said. “It’s not been the best one, but I can finish it calling it a good one if I do well here in Paris.”
Rune’s next opponent will be either lucky loser Arthur Cazaux or Basel finalist Ben Shelton. Rune has a 1-0 record against Shelton but lost to Cazaux earlier this year at the Australian Open.
