Holger Rune on Sunday, April 20, defeated Carlos Alcaraz in direct sets to claim the title Barcelona Open 2025. The Danish star also became the first player to defeat Alcaraz at the ATP 500, because Frances Tiafoe won 6-4, 7-6 in the 64 round in 2021.
Alcaraz, who Started out of season of clay courts to win Monte Carlo MastersHe won Barcelona Open in 2022 and 2023, after which he missed the 2024 release due to his right arm injury. Rune also won his first title from the Bavarian open in April 2023.
“It means the world, it was such a great match. At the beginning I was a little stressed because Carlos apparently played a big tennis and I had to breathe a lot and find my rhythm,” Rune said.
“When he broke me, I think I got more into the match and played more of my tennis. It was a big battle in the first set. I know what it is like to lose this kind of first set, it was very important to win it and get dynamics. So I’m so proud of myself,” Rune added.
How Rune has taken off Alcaraz
Alcaraz came out in the opening set strong and secured an early break to lead 3-2. Rune, however, quickly struck and smashed Alcaraz to level the score and then move forward 4-3. Alcaraz pushed his back against the wall to force Tiebreak.
Alcaraz saved two set points in a tri-breaker, but Rune ended the set after Alcaraz’s return sailed for a long time.
Alcaraz in the second set went forward 2-1, but then called for a medical time limit, seemingly concerned about the problem of the thigh or weakness. Rune increased his game while Alcaraz tried to keep up.
Rune was sharp in the net, won 12 out of 16 approaches, while Alcaraz’s unforced errors began to increase. When Rune plunged on the lead 5-2, she echoed from the stands.
Rune with the nerves of steel served to love, sealed the title when Alcaraz’s final return cried the net and fell back to his side.
Published:
Sabyasachi Chowdhury
Published on:
April 20, 2025
