"I do have an app”: Holger Rune gets real about the challenges of modern dating

Holger Rune is one of tennis’ brightest young stars, and ahead of the US Open, he sat down with Ajla Tomljanovic to discuss everything from the intensity of New York to his personal life and ambitions. Known for his fiery on-court presence, Rune admits that off the court, he is a much calmer and more relaxed person.

“I actually do like it, especially coming from Cincinnati. I think New York gives you a lot of energy. I love the energy from the crowd and everything. I like it,” Rune said when asked about the chaos and excitement of playing in the Big Apple. The Danish star clearly thrives on the city’s unique atmosphere, which fuels him as he competes at the highest level.

The world No. 11 is far from his best form, having a difficult time in his recent Grand Slam appearances. For many, the Dane was seen as the third player in the rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz, and perhaps the one called to challenge their dominance. However, he has fallen behind in recent seasons and recently dropped out of the top 10.

Since Wimbledon 2023, he hasn't reached the quarterfinals of a major. In his most recent Grand Slam appearances, he fell in the first round of Wimbledon—losing a two-set lead to Nicolas Jarry—and barely made it to the second round of the US Open, losing in five sets to Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff.

Rune is equally candid about his emotional style on the court. “I’m more calm, I would say. I think I just show my passion for tennis when I’m on the court. Off the court, I’m more relaxed, like happy. On the court, I’m more intense—happy, angry, everything really. But I think emotion is good. If I try to control it too much, it almost explodes. So it has to get out the right way and at the right moments,” he explained, noting that even anger can be turned into positive energy during a match: “Even when I’m angry and stuff, I can get it out in a positive way. Like you hit a good winner and you’re like, yes, come on.”

Traveling with family is another aspect of Rune’s life that adds both comfort and complication. “I’d say the most annoying—but also good—part is that they demand a lot. That’s good, but sometimes annoying. It’s a balance. I enjoy having family around because we travel so much. My sister’s also here. Sometimes my father’s there,” Rune said, acknowledging the challenges and joys of having loved ones in the tour bubble.

When it comes to dating, Rune is refreshingly honest. “I think a nice date setting is either to go for a walk or to go for a drink. A proper dinner is too much sometimes,” he said. Asked about deal breakers, he admitted, “If they don’t speak much, it’s tough. I’ve had situations where I end up mostly speaking, and then I start wondering, are they even interested in what I’m doing?” Rune also clarified his stance on online dating: “Not really, but I do have an app. It’s tough. I haven’t found anyone interesting so far. I think it’s much better to meet someone in real life.”

Fitness is another topic fans are curious about. Rune laughed when asked about his legs and workout routine. “That’s a good question. I think it’s a lot thanks to genetics for sure. But also I do train legs. As a tennis player, you get good legs by playing tennis because you move a lot. But honestly, I feel it’s mostly genetics,” he said, keeping a lighthearted tone about his physical gifts.

In addition to tennis, Rune has authored two books, one for young children introducing them to the sport and another with more technical content about grips and basic techniques. “Even I still have questions. Sometimes I wonder, ‘What if I do this on the backhand?’ I’m not saying it’s perfect, but it gives a nice picture of the basics. Sometimes that’s all you need to start,” he explained, showing his thoughtful approach to teaching the next generation.

When asked about his bucket list, Rune didn’t hesitate. “Win a Grand Slam. Number one in the world. And in the future, do everything I can for my family, because they’ve helped me so much. Also, create a nice family of my own,” he said. Tomljanović praised the sentiment: “Oh my god, that is like one of the best bucket lists. Especially the family part—you can always trust them. That’s what you have forever, because everything else can change.”

With his ambitions clear, his emotional intensity on the court, and a grounded approach off it, Holger Rune is not just a player to watch for his tennis—it’s his personality, drive, and dedication that make him truly compelling.