The One-Legged Dane

Once again, Rune's legs are gone late in the match...

It was a Rune match that was not all too unfamiliar. Dropping the first set with some erratic moments, a strong second set to bounce back, and then a dramatic third set that ends up with him barely able to move - we've seen this many times before! I've mentioned it before... but Rune plays quite well when he is not at 100%. Perhaps cause he has a lot of experience being in this situation? ;) And he has good tennis IQ combined with big firepower that can help him hit winners from most parts of the court. His celebration was quite muted after winning, and he mentioned in the post-match interview that he was not feeling so good, but would try to recover. Humbert got to face a familiar foe, Sonego. Both players refused to give up any court position, which resulted in quite many ugly errors trying to take the ball on early... It was a match decided by small margins, and Humbert won it due to being extremely clutch, 12/12 breakpoints saved!

This is a matchup that has been really good to Rune, as can be seen in a very dominant 5-0 H2H. Holger excels against Attacking Baseliners, and that's what Humbert is! Rune is not bothered by Humbert's ability to move the ball around the court, since he is a really great mover and solid from both wings. He also does not mind facing a lefty since he has a really good backhand. In truth, most things that Humbert does, Rune can do equally good or better. I trust Rune in this matchup, and I have not been overly impressed by either player just yet in this tournament. However, the major question ahead of this match is quite simple - in what shape will Rune show up (if at all)?