Teen Holger Rune Collects First Career Title In Munich
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Teen Holger Rune won his first career title Sunday in Munich when his opponent, Botic van de Zandschulp, had to retire in the first set up 4-3 on serve due to a chest issue.
“This was probably the worst way to win a final,” said Rune. “I was obviously expecting a very tough match and he came out very strong. I just wish him all the best, a speedy recovery, and we all just hope to see him back on the court very soon.”
Both players were appearing in their first career ATP final after a career-best week and it was van de Zandschulp racing out to a 4-1 lead before the injury.
“I think I showed a good level, some good wins here,” said the Dutchman. “I hope to back that up a little bit in the next couple of weeks and keep the same level, but first of all get physically ready for the next tournament.
“I started pretty well in the beginning, the first five games, then it changed for me. It was tough for me to play long rallies and keep the level I had in the first five games. I thought it was getting better after the treatment, but unfortunately I had to retire from the match.”
Rune didn’t drop a set, stunning Alexander Zverev in the second round for his first Top 10 victory. He celebrated his 19th birth on Friday with a win in the quarters over Emil Ruusuvuori.
Van De Zandschulp upset Casper Ruud then yesterday in the semifinals outlasted Miomir Kecmanovic.
Rune is the fifth first-time winner on the season.
“I’m super happy, of course,” said Rune. “As I said, not the way I want it to end, but if I look through the week, what a week. I played some unbelievable tennis, really fighting my way through it. To be playing here in Munich and winning my first ATP title in front of such a brilliant crowd, I couldn’t really ask for more.”
The Dane will move into the Top 45 and potentially, if he continues to do well, could see a French Open seeding.
Really happy to win my first ATP title 🏆 Sadly not the way I wanted. But the culmination of many years of work. Just the beginning… 💪🏼 Thank you for this week @BMWOpen2022
📸 Gerry | @hassensteinalex | @atptour pic.twitter.com/xLF6hZiiLE
— Holger Rune (@holgerrune2003) May 1, 2022
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