Roger Federer has been an inspiration to many aspiring tennis players. He is an example both on and off the field, a true role model. His politeness and humility towards his opponents and fans have made him a fan favorite. One such fan is the 20-year-old Danish tennis player- Holgar Rune. What did he have to say about the Swiss legend?

Holgar Rune has been having a tough time recently after his exit from the semi-finals of the Swiss Indoors. Felix Auger Aliassime defeated Rune by 6-3,6-2 to book his place in the finals against Hubert Hurkacz. But that doesn’t stop the Dane from recalling the Swiss legend, who has been a major role model in shaping his career as a pro tennis player.

Holgar Rune and his obsession with Roger Federer

Rune has admitted that he has been a fan of Roger Federer since his childhood. The way Federer transformed the sport into what it is today is nothing less than an admiration for this young lad. He had once met Federer when he practiced with him at the Nitto ATP Finals in 2019. But he never got the opportunity to play with him. He was also a big fan of Rafael Nadal at some point in his growing up as a tennis player. But Federer impressed him the most. Here’s what he says about his love for the Swiss Maestro.

He was asked that after a youth tournament, where he failed in the final by refusing the loser’s cup, he went in two minutes from boundless admiration for Nadal to that for Federer. Wasn’t it strange? He replied, “No, actually. I wanted to be number 1 and Federer had remained number 1 for a long time at the time. And even if Rafa became one again, I was in love with Roger’s game and he’s still my favorite player. I would have really liked to play against him. Maybe one day, in an exhibition tournament“

He was so obsessed with Federer, and his shots that it almost affected his own game. He imitated Roger Federer’s signature bandana and even the classic one-handed backhand. Rune tried to implement everything that his idol did on the court except for his calm and composure. But his coach was pretty much annoyed with all this so he had to stop it ultimately. Holgar Rune is one the rising talents of the tennis world, can he follow in the footsteps of his idol?

READ MORE: With Boris Becker’s Blessings Abandoning Him in Basel, Holger Rune Launches All Out Rant During Embarrassing Loss- ‘Playing Like S***’

The journey of 20YO fanboy of Federer

The current number 6 from Denmark, started playing tennis at 6 years of age. He initially came into the sport after watching his sister play but later on, he took the sport seriously and ultimately turned pro at the age of 16. Roger Federer inspired him to dominate on the court and Rune took lessons after watching the Maestro doing what he does best. He learned more shots than just the backhands and forehands. The journey of his career has been through ups and downs. But he has successfully achieved writing his name as the highest-ranked Danish player in the history of ATP rankings when he was ranked 4 in the list.

He has become an inspiration for young Danes by following one of his inspirations from the Helvetia. Can he make a comeback to the top 5 yet again? Let us know your opinions in the comment box.

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