“That’s the plan”: Holger Rune responds to US Open question as comeback draws closer
ATPMonday, 13 July 2026 at 21:30
Holger Rune has taken another important step toward his return to the ATP Tour after sharing a positive update from his recovery process. The Dane posted footage of himself training on court at high intensity, suggesting that his comeback from a serious Achilles injury is moving closer.
The former world No. 4 has been sidelined for almost nine months after suffering an Achilles injury during the Stockholm Open in October 2025. Rune later confirmed that he had fractured the proximal part of his left Achilles before undergoing successful surgery.
With the North American hard-court swing approaching, the 23-year-old has now given fans renewed hope about his return. One supporter asked Rune on Instagram whether he would compete at this year’s US Open, writing: “Please are you playing US Open? We miss you.”
Rune responded with a short but encouraging message: “That’s the plan.”
The Dane’s latest update showed him hitting balls on court with what appeared to be close to full intensity, marking another positive stage in his rehabilitation after a long period away from competition.
Rune targets US Open return after ranking drop
Rune’s injury absence has had a major impact on his position in the ATP rankings. The former world No. 4 has fallen to No. 81 after missing several important tournaments where he was defending significant points.
The Dane was unable to defend his title at the Barcelona Open and also lost the ranking points from his run to the 2025 Indian Wells final. He also missed the clay-court season’s biggest events after withdrawing from the Hamburg Open and Roland Garros.
Rune had initially hoped to return during the clay swing but later delayed his comeback. Last month, he also withdrew from Queen’s and Wimbledon, although he explained that his recovery was progressing well and that he was “getting closer every day.”
The Dane is not currently entered for the Canadian Open, meaning his possible return could come at the Cincinnati Open, whose main draw begins on August 13, or he could wait until the US Open, which starts later in August.
Protected ranking gives Rune flexibility for comeback
Despite his ranking decline, Rune will have protection available when he returns. Since he has been out of competition for more than six months due to injury, the Dane can use his protected ranking to enter major tournaments and other important ATP events during the remainder of the season.
That gives Rune additional flexibility as he manages the final stages of his recovery. Rather than rushing back too early, the Dane can focus on returning physically ready for the hard-court season’s biggest tournaments.
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Before his injury, Rune had established himself as one of the most promising players of his generation, reaching a career-high No. 4 ranking and winning multiple ATP titles, including the 2022 Paris Masters. After months away from the tour, the next major milestone is clear: a return to competition and a chance to rebuild momentum on the biggest stages.
Holger Rune – US Open Results by Year
| Year | Round Reached | Lost To | Score |
| 2021 | 1R | Novak Djokovic | 6-1, 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-1 |
| 2022 | 3R | Cameron Norrie | 7-5, 6-4, 6-1 |
| 2023 | 1R | Roberto Carballés Baena | 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 |
| 2024 | 1R | Brandon Nakashima | 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 |
| 2025 | 2R | Jan-Lennard Struff | 7-6(5), 2-6, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 |
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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