Holger RUNE fulfilled against local Luca NARDI and advanced to the round of 16 in Rome Open.

Holger Rune maintained a high level to overcome the Italian Luca Nardi (No. 81) by 6-4, 6-4 and progressed to the Round of 16 in the Rome Open. The 2023 finalist returns to the Foro Italico with a victory against a local player, increasing his record at the Foro Italico to 6-1 before facing Sebastian Baez.

In the first set, Rune took the lead in the third game, following a hesitant service game from Nardi. The support of the local crowd was felt throughout the match in favor of Nardi, who appeared nervous in the first part with a 50% first serve, winning 65%, well below Rune's 67% first service, of which he won 89%.

The only break in the third game allowed the Danish player to hold onto his advantage. Rune earned several free points and was more aggressive than his opponent with 13 winners against just 3 from his rival, and he didn't face any break points against him, so he took the set 6-3 after 47 minutes.

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In the second set, Rune once again demonstrated superiority, although he started to lower his level as the minutes passed, but he maintained his composure in crucial moments. In the fourth game, Rune struggled with his service and had to save 6 break points against him to maintain the equality. In the following game, the Danish player seized his first break opportunity to take the lead, which would be decisive in the match.

Nardi didn't make it easy for Rune from the return, but the Danish player was flawless from the service line and ultimately clinched the victory on his second match point with a score of 6-4, 6-4. With this, the 2023 finalist increased his record in Rome to 6-1, advanced to the third round, and will face the Argentine clay specialist Sebastian Baez (No. 17).

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