“I can’t wait”: Holger Rune announces long-awaited comeback event after 11 months on sidelines
WTATuesday, 08 September 2026 at 22:00
Holger Rune's long wait is finally coming to an end. The Danish star has confirmed that he will return to competitive tennis later this month, ending an 11-month absence following the devastating Achilles injury that brought his 2025 season to an abrupt halt.
Rune will make his comeback representing Denmark in the Davis Cup tie against Bulgaria, scheduled for September 18-20 in Copenhagen. It means his first competitive match since October last year will come in front of a home crowd, adding another layer to what will already be an emotional moment for the former world No. 4.
The 23-year-old suffered a complete proximal rupture of his Achilles tendon during his semifinal match against Ugo Humbert at the Stockholm Open. Surgery followed shortly afterwards, beginning a lengthy rehabilitation process that kept one of the ATP Tour's most recognisable young stars away from competition for almost an entire year.
There have been signs in recent weeks that his return was getting closer. Rune stepped up his preparations last month by training with Carlos Alcaraz in Murcia, but Tuesday brought the confirmation Danish fans had been waiting for: Rune is ready to play again.
“I can’t wait to see all my fans again”
Rune announced the news himself on social media, making no attempt to hide how much the prolonged absence had affected him.
“I have great news today to tell you all and great news for myself that I will be coming back at the end of the next week for the Davis Cup. I am thrilled. I am so excited. It has been 11 months of hard work and I can’t wait to see all my fans and all the Danish people and all the fans around the world again.”
For Rune, the opportunity to begin his comeback at home makes the occasion even more significant. Rather than returning at a regular ATP tournament, he will wear Denmark's colours in Copenhagen, where the Davis Cup crowd will get the first opportunity to see him back in competitive action.
“I missed it so much and to be back playing and starting at home will be beautiful. See you guys the 18th September in Copenhagen for my first match. Let’s go.”
Speaking separately to Danish outlet DR, Rune also reflected on the unusual significance of returning after such a lengthy recovery period.
“I am incredibly excited to be back in action. Being out for 11 months — and the fact that it’s taking place on Danish soil — makes it even more special. Danish fans are fantastic.”
“Great news for myself.”
— The First Serve (@TheFirstServeAU) September 8, 2026
🇩🇰 Holger Rune to officially return next week for Denmark’s Davis Cup tie, nearly one year since rupturing his right Achilles tendon. pic.twitter.com/uHCB31pZjT
A long road back to the ATP Tour
The Davis Cup tie against Bulgaria will be Rune's first real test after months of rehabilitation and preparation. Denmark will face Bulgaria in a World Group I tie, with Rune expected to lead the home side as he begins the next chapter of his career.
His absence came at a particularly difficult moment, removing him from the tour for nearly an entire season. Before the injury, Rune had already established himself as one of the leading players of his generation, reaching a career-high ranking of world No. 4 and winning five ATP titles, including the Paris Masters in 2022.
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Now comes the difficult part: turning months of training into competitive match fitness. Rune will inevitably need time to rediscover his rhythm after such a long layoff, but simply reaching this point represents a significant milestone after one of the most serious injuries in tennis.
For now, however, the focus is on Copenhagen. After 11 months of rehabilitation, uncertainty and waiting, Holger Rune finally has a date circled on the calendar. “I’ve missed the matches, the crowd, and the feeling of competing, so I’m really looking forward to stepping onto the court next Friday.”
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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