"He's one of the greatest to play the game": Rune lauds praise on Djokovic after Rome Open win

Holger Rune defeated Novak Djokovic with an impressive display and it's a really big win for him that will do a lot for his confidence ahead of Roland Garros.

It was a bit of a crazy match with both Rune and Djokovic clashing with umpire Lahyani however it was the Dane who proved better overall. He overcame a rain delay as well as any other distraction to stay focused and keep a good level overall outplaying Djokovic in the two winning sets 6-2 6-2.

Speaking after the match, Rune said:

"It's really a big win for me. Obviously I did it last year in Paris as well, but every match is a huge challenge for me when I play against Novak. He's one of the greatest that's ever played the game. I knew I had to be at my best and I said it yesterday, and I was today. I'm super proud of myself and I enjoyed every moment out there."

Read also

2023 Rome Open ATP Prize Money with €7,705,780 on offer

He added:

"I stay humble of course. I have a lot to achieve. I think you should always be humble. I think I am, I hope so and I hope people see me this way. I'm a huge fighter on the court and I leave everything when I play my matches. I'm super proud I was able to get the victory today. I had to fight hard and play my best tennis."