Holger Rune has claimed that he is always scheduled to play on the “worst courts” by two unnamed ATP supervisors after learning where he will play his first round match at the US Open.
Rune, who is currently ranked fourth in the world, will begin his campaign against Spain’s Roberto Carballés Baena on Court Five. A somewhat interesting decision considering his seeding. On the same day as Rune’s first round match, the three premier courts will feature six men’s matches. However, five of those feature a seeded player with a lower ranking than the Dane. Fifth seed Casper Ruud will play on Court 17 which is the fourth biggest court in terms of capacity.
At the time of the announcement, Rune poked fun at the situation by posting a map of the tournament on X (formerly known as Twitter). He said his decision to do so was so fans knew where to watch him play.
However, the 20-year-old has now made his views clear on the matter during an interview with TV2 Denmark. One of the network’s tennis analysts, Peter Bastiansen, has branded the scheduling of his compatriot’s first round encounter as ‘disrespectful.’
“I completely agree,” Rune said in response to Bastiansen’s comments. “It is two ATP managers/supervisors who always give me the worst courts. So that’s how it is.”
Pressed further about his remarks concerning the unnamed officials, Rune said he believes that there is ‘something in it’ when it comes to their decisions regarding his matches. Although he provided no explanation of what this could possibly be.
“100 percent (there is something in it). But I don’t mind complaining about it. I have a tournament to win and I have to be focused. I have to do my best, no matter what court I’m on.” He said.
This year will be Rune’s third main draw appearance at the US Open. His best result was reaching the third round last year.
