15 Grand Slam tries, still no semifinal: Zverev pinpoints Rune’s key issue

World number three Germany’s Alexander Zverev has highlighted the reason behind Denmark’s Holger Rune’s struggles on the court. The 22-year-old, who is often regarded as one of the most talented players currently playing in men’s tennis, has found it difficult to keep the consistency going at the highest level.

Rune’s journey in the ongoing French Open came to an end in the fourth round, where he lost to Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti with a score of 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2. It was the 15th occasion where the current world number 10 featured in the main round of a Grand Slam, but is still looking to cement his spot in the semifinal or beyond. That’s not it, as during those 15 attempts, he only managed to cement a spot in the quarterfinals of a major event on just three occasions.

Zverev, who is also taking part in the French Open and has booked his place in the last eight after being awarded a walkover against Tallon Griekspoor, was asked during a press talk about his point of view regarding the match between Musetti and Rune. In response to that, the current world number three highlighted that while the Gentofte-born remains more talented, his consistency remains a major obstacle in achieving better results. Zverev also highlighted that Musetti, despite his limitations, has managed to find consistency, which is helping him produce some incredible results.

“No, I mean, both of them can play incredibly good tennis for sure,” he said. “I think right now at this very second Musetti is more stable in his tennis than Holger. I think Holger is maybe even more talented. I think he has the potential to do great great things. But I think he’s missing a bit of the stability… which Musetti has found during the clay court season. He’s been very stable this clay court season. Surprised? No. But I thought it would be a tough match for sure.”