In a surprising turn of events, World No. 4 Holger Rune has chosen to part ways with his coach, the former mentor of Serena Williams, Patrick Mouratoglou. This decision comes on the heels of Rune’s unexpected first-round exit at the US Open in New York, where he was defeated by Roberto Carballes Baena 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2
After suffering his fourth consecutive defeat on the ATP tour, the 20-year-old Dane made the pivotal choice to separate from Patrick Mouratoglou. Mouratoglou, in a heartfelt statement on his social media account, acknowledged their journey together, which saw Rune’s remarkable ascent from world no. 30 to world no. 4 in ATP rankings within just nine months.
Mouratoglou’s words resonated with a sense of nostalgia as he recollected the transformation in Holger Rune’s tennis career under his patronage. With a hint of pride and admiration, he wrote, “What a ride @holgerrune2003! In 9 months, winning Paris, playing the final of Monte Carlo and Rome, winning Stockholm and Munich. From 30 to no. 4 ATP.”
What a ride @holgerrune2003 !
In 9 months, winning Paris, playing final of Monte Carlo and Rome, winning Stockholm and Munich…. From 30 to no4 ATP.
Unfortunately, all the stories have to come to an end.
I took the utmost pleasure with you and I will always be your supporter.…— Patrick Mouratoglou (@pmouratoglou) September 2, 2023
Mouratoglou concluded with a heartfelt reflection, “Unfortunately, all the stories have to come to an end.” Despite this, Mouratoglou expressed his support for Rune’s future endeavors and reiterated his commitment to the young player by fully backing and supporting him.
After his early exit in the last Grand Slam of the year, his next goal for this season is to qualify for the prestigious ATP Finals in Turin, a testament to his determination and rising star status in the world of tennis. As Holger Rune reflects on his US Open debacle, he needs to re-establish stability within his team and his surroundings to elevate his on-court performance.
Holger Rune’s mother delves into the issue
Holger Rune’s mother has candidly addressed the turbulent coaching dynamics that have affected her son’s performance, shedding light on the presence of “ego clashes” between the coaches. Her statements offer a revealing glimpse into the challenges that Rune has faced behind the scenes.
In her disclosure, Rune’s mother affirmed the real presence of ego clashes within the coaching team, dispelling any notion that these were rumors. She stated, “It just didn’t work out. Right now, it is important that Holger finds the right team that he can have for a long time. He has decided that isn’t with Patrick.” This resolute decision underlines the impact these disagreements had on Rune’s game and development.
Holger Rune’s mom announces his son’s partnership with Mouratoglou now definitely over. “It just didn’t work out. Right now it is important that Holger finds the right team, that he can have for a long time. He has decided that isn’t with Patrick”, she told @jakobkloecker.
Mom… pic.twitter.com/jIqY62kRyD
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) August 31, 2023
The differences in coaching philosophies and approaches between Patrick Mouratoglou and Rune’s previous coach, Lars Christensen had created an environment that hindered Rune’s progress. Patrick Mouratoglou was present at the French Open, while Lars was absent. The reverse was true at Wimbledon. Their disagreements and ego tussles had a noticeable impact on Rune’s recent performances.
Without Patrick Mouratoglou in the coaching equation, Rune is ready to embark on a new journey with a fresh approach. The reintroduction of Lars Christensen into a prominent coaching role represents a significant step in this transition. The tennis world eagerly awaits the dawn of a new chapter in the Danish star’s young career.
Discussion about this post