By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Monday, April 21, 2025
Photo credit: Munich BMW Open Facebook
Novak Djokovic carved out a mesmerizing moment on Roland Garros’ vibrant red clay, setting an unparalleled standard that Holger Rune embraced to claim victory in Barcelona.
Displaying remarkable composure, Rune triumphed over top seed Carlos Alcaraz with a scoreline of 7-6(6), 6-2 in an electrifying Barcelona final, marking his fifth career title.
The 21-year-old followed a straightforward yet effective game plan: mirror Djokovic’s approach when defeating Alcaraz in the Paris Olympic gold-medal clash last August.
“At the start, after being broken, I questioned, ‘How can I possibly beat him?’” Rune shared with the press in Barcelona. “I thought to myself, ‘What did Novak do to overcome him?’
“I replayed that Olympic final in my head. I watched every moment of that incredible match, and decided to emulate that playing style, really making him engage in lengthy rallies.”
“I’m thrilled with how I maintained my composure at crucial moments and had the courage when it truly counted.”
In a thrilling Olympic final, Djokovic outlasted Carlos Alcaraz 7-6(3), 7-6(2) in a captivating showdown, securing his first gold medal and achieving a legendary career Golden Slam.
Expressing his emotions, Djokovic raised his arms to the heavens, shedding tears into his towel post-match after fulfilling his lifelong ambition of clinching gold for Serbia, showcasing a performance filled with passion.
At 37, the Serbian icon etched his name in history as the oldest Olympic tennis gold medalist since tennis returned to the Olympics at the 1988 Seoul Games.
In the Barcelona final tiebreak, deadlocked at 4-all, Rune unleashed a magnificent running forehand pass reminiscent of Djokovic, propelling him to victory.
Undoubtedly, few players can match Djokovic’s all-court prowess.
Interestingly, Djokovic has commented that Rune’s playing style reflects aspects of his own.
Djokovic noted that the lanky Rune’s balance, court movement, and versatility on various surfaces evoke memories of his own playing days.
“[Rune] reminds me a bit of myself, he’s fit, possesses great defensive skills, and excels as a counter-puncher,” Djokovic remarked. “He can inflict damage from both the forehand and backhand, has a solid serve, and aggressive returns.”
“He’s a well-rounded player across all surfaces, particularly on clay where he feels right at home.”
