ATP launches investigation into homophobic comments made by Holger Rune

ATP has confirmed to Danish TV that it has launched an official investigation into inappropriate comments made by Danish player Holger Rune.

Holger Rune is an 18-year old tennis player who has been breaking out in 2021 with some stellar results especially on the clay courts of South America. The youngster recently won the Biella Challenger and it was in Italy that this incident occurred. During the semifinal match vs Etcheverry Rune made homophobic comments directed towards his opponent.

Danish television station TV 2 SPORT reached out to ATP and received a written response from the Organization that read:

"ATP is committed to ensuring an inclusive environment for all players, staff and fans, and there is absolutely no room for homophobic remarks in tennis."

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The player is investigated in accordance with the 'player code of conduct. The camera at the event intercepted Rune's comments which we will not carry here. Rune eventually won the match and event.

Rune apologized for the comments on his social media accounts after the video surfaced online. TV 2 SPORT also reached out to the player and was able to interview him. He said:

It was in no way to hurt anyone. I will never ever say such things again. Personally, I'm sorry for my behaviour, because I do not want to be a guy who walks around and says such things.

You can read the original story (in Danish) here. You can see the video of the incident below.