Unexpected twist: Holger Rune speaks out following sudden Roland Garros departure

Holger Rune to miss Roland Garros and Hamburg, extending absence

Holger Rune has officially ruled himself out of the clay season, telling fans on X: “Tough decision not to play the clay season, but the right one. Can’t wait to see you all on the grass.

“Thank you to everyone for your love and support throughout my rehab, see you in not too long.”

The Dane has been forced to withdraw from Roland Garros and Hamburg due to a delay in his recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon suffered at last year’s Stockholm Open.

He hasn’t played since then, and while he originally hoped for a return at the start of May, he’ll have to wait until June when the grass-court season gets underway.

Avoiding an early comeback is best for Holger Rune’s long-term health

Pushing back his return is likely the smart move for Rune. Rushing into Roland Garros or Hamburg could’ve caused more harm than good.

He knows better than anyone how his body is feeling right now, and taking extra time lowers the risk of any further setbacks.

This break is partly down to where he’s already expected success. In 2023, he won the Paris Masters, reached two Masters finals in Rome and Monte Carlo, reached another final in Munich as well as being part of Team Europe at Laver Cup 2023, also hosted in Paris, so these aren’t new heights either that he’ll be missing out on.