US Open: Holger Rune, a viable contender at Flushing Meadows?

Holger Rune, fresh off reaching his new career-high ranking of World No. 4, has continued his rapid climb up the ATP rankings over the last few years. To date, the biggest week of his tennis career was winning the 2022 Paris Masters 1000 event. That victory put him on the map and the young Dane has not stopped rolling. At 20, he has not quite reached the astronomical heights of his fellow Next Gen superstar, Carlos Alcaraz.

However, Holger Rune has yet to make a massive impact at the Grand Slams. It’s one thing to put your name in the realm of contenders, it’s another thing entirely to be a true challenger for the biggest prizes. He owns a very entertaining all-around style of play that has endeared him to fans around the world. However, his feisty personality has led to a few questionable moments on court.

His ability to transition from defense to offense is something that will work to his advantage at Flushing Meadows. He comes to the net far more than the average Top 10 player, and this variety has served him well thus far.

Holger Rune could be a surprise at the US Open

To date, his best showing at the Grand Slam level has been three quarterfinal showings, two of which came on the clay of Roland Garros.

Holger Rune has reached the last eight at the French Open and Wimbledon this season. Unfortunately, he has been hampered by a lingering back injury in the ensuing months. A 1st round exit from the 1000 event in Toronto was followed by a withdrawal last week in Cincinnati.

He has since posted a positive update on his back as he begins his work for the US Open. Assuming full health for Rune, he will be the 4-seed in New York. This high seeding should theoretically allow him a more comfortable passage through the first three rounds.  It will be key for Rune to win his early matches in straight sets or a comfortable four.

Being pushed early on could prove problematic for his back and his chances. He is a player that relies on his athleticism and if he has full trust his body can hold up, he will certainly be a viable threat.

We know he has it in him as he showed in his Paris Masters win where he defeated five Top 10 players that week. Can he put together another run like that in New York? It’s certainly possible, as the talent is there.

Ultimately, it might come down to matchups later in the event and if he can avoid Alcaraz or Novak Djokovic, he can take down anyone in the field. If things fall his way, Rune could make a Frances Tiafoe or Casper Ruud-type run. Either way it goes, you can bet he will make it fun to watch.