Holger Rune produced a flawless performance on Sunday to defeat world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz 7-6 (8/6), 6-2 to win his first-ever Barcelona Open title.
The Danish star, ranked 13th in the world, became only the second player to beat Alcaraz in his last 23 matches on clay, ending a title drought that stretched back to April 2023. Despite Alcaraz showing signs of physical discomfort in the second set, Rune’s tactical brilliance and composure proved decisive.
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“It’s a crazy feeling,” said Rune. “It’s been such a long time since I won a title, maybe a little more than a year. I’m so happy.
Beating Carlos in the final, a good friend and amazing player, means the world to me. I’m so proud to be in this moment.”
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Alcaraz falls short in title defence amid physical struggles
Alcaraz, a four-time Grand Slam winner and defending champion, was bidding for his third Barcelona crown as part of his preparations for the French Open. The Spaniard had not dropped a set all week until Rune’s relentless pressure took its toll.
“It’s been two weeks of non-stop work, going to the max every day,” said Alcaraz. “Today it wasn’t possible. I gave everything I had; I don’t know if I could’ve given more, but I want to thank my team, family, and friends.”
Rune channels Djokovic’s strategy to outclass the Spaniard
The match began with Alcaraz breaking Rune in the fifth game, but the Dane responded immediately to level at 3-3. Rune then applied pressure late in the set, with Alcaraz saving two set points in the 10th game. Rune eventually clinched the opening set in a tense tie-break after Alcaraz sent a forehand long.
In the second set, Alcaraz appeared hampered by discomfort and took a medical timeout after the third game. Rune capitalised, breaking twice and saving crucial break points to consolidate his lead before sealing victory with Alcaraz netting a final shot.
Rune later revealed he took inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s Olympic win over Alcaraz on clay last year.
“I asked myself, ‘What did Novak do when he beat him?’ I played it in my mind, the Olympics final, and tried to play that style, making a lot of balls.
I’m very happy with how I stayed composed when it mattered and that I was really brave.”
