'I think it’s dangerous for the players': Holger Rune criticises surface used at Rome Open despite second-round win

Denmark’s Holger Rune has criticised the surface of the new court being used for the Rome Open. The ATP 1000 event is now moving towards the business end, where the remaining players are giving their all to secure the ultimate prize.

Denmark’s Rune featured in his first game on Friday, where he defeated Argentina’s Francisco Comesana in straight sets with a score of 3-6, 6-3, 6-4. Talking after the match, the 22-year-old, who is regarded as one of the most talented players on the tour, criticised the surface used for the match and stated that, in his opinion, it is ‘dangerous’ for the players.

“I found the conditions very difficult on this court,” he said as quoted by Tennisnow.com “It’s a new court – it was very tough to move,” Rune said. “I think it’s dangerous for the players, honestly, to play on this court, but it is what it is, I got through.”

Rune went on to talk about his own performance in the match, expressing satisfaction with his performance. The Gentofte-born star, who recently won the Barcelona Open, defeating Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz in the final in straight sets, also praised his opponent Comesana, who, according to him, has a ‘bright future’ ahead of him.

“I maybe used a little bit of unnecessary energy on it in the first set,” he said. “But it was very difficult. It’s before the French Open and we don’t want to risk injuries and stuff. I honestly think it’s not playable. That’s my opinion. I’m from Denmark and in Denmark in the beginning of the season we really know what not-ready clay looks like – trust me. I haven’t actually played that many long matches this clay season so I was happy to test myself. I can do it – I was very happy with my physical level, now it’s just about recovering. He [Comesana] was playing phenomenal tennis. Big respect to Comesana, what a player he is. He has a bright future ahead of him. From my side I am happy that I found a way. It’s been a while, since Barcelona, that I played a [full] match, so I’m happy to be back.”