PARIS
Holger Rune has withdrawn from the upcoming French Open as he continues his recovery from Achilles tendon surgery, with the former world No. 4 now aiming to return during the grass-court season ahead of Wimbledon.
Rune confirmed his decision through a message posted on social media, saying he was prioritising his long-term fitness rather than rushing back for the clay-court Grand Slam in Paris.
“Tough decision not to play the clay season, but the right one. Can’t wait to see you all on the grass,” Rune wrote on X.
The 23-year-old Dane underwent surgery after suffering an Achilles tendon injury during a tournament in Sweden in October last year. Since then, Rune has been working through rehabilitation in hopes of returning fully fit for the second half of the season.
Rune’s withdrawal is a significant blow to the French Open field, with the young star widely regarded as one of the most talented players of his generation. Known for his aggressive baseline game and fighting spirit, Rune has already reached three Grand Slam quarterfinals in his career despite his young age.
He enjoyed a breakthrough period in 2023 when he climbed to a career-high ranking of world No. 4 and established himself among the sport’s elite players. His performances against top-ranked opponents had marked him as a future Grand Slam contender.
The French Open is scheduled to begin in less than two weeks at Roland Garros Stadium, but Rune’s medical team has decided against risking a premature comeback on the physically demanding clay courts.
Instead, the Danish star is now targeting a return during the grass-court swing next month. His primary focus is expected to be the Wimbledon Championships, which begins on June 29 in London.
Grass courts generally place less strain on movement and sliding compared to clay, potentially making them more suitable for a player recovering from an Achilles injury.
Rune’s absence adds to the growing list of injury concerns affecting the men’s tour ahead of the French Open, with several top players continuing to manage fitness issues during the demanding Grand Slam season.
Fans will now hope the Danish star can make a successful return in time for Wimbledon and regain the form that once made him one of the brightest young talents in world tennis.
