Dane Holger Rune and Argentine Francisco Cerundolo served up some thrilling tennis in their fifth-round match at the 2023 French Open. All in all, it was arguably among the best matches that the clay court showpiece has seen so far this year. However, as is the case with most enthralling tennis contests, Rune’s clash against Cerundolo had a moment of controversy as well. It came in the third set and involved another contentious decision from the chair umpire. Ultimately, the decision benefited Rune, who capitalized on it and ultimately won the match, which lasted nearly four hours.

However, despite the highly rated Dane advancing to the quarterfinals, several tennis fans on social media criticized Rune. After all, he also had a prominent role to play as the moment of controversy unfolded.

Fans accuse Holger Rune of cheating at the French Open

Ahead of the 2023 French Open, Rune emerged as one of the favorites to go deep into the tournament. With his win over Cenrundolo, he has proved that he was well worth the hype. However, at the back of his mind, Rune will know that he could have played a part in undoing the controversial moment, which involved a double bounce. All Rune needed to do was to speak up as the umpire missed the double bounce. However, he stayed silent, and as a result, won the contentious point. Cerundolo was clearly furious, but as the Argentine lost his cool, the Dane kept his, and went on to win the set.

Rune’s silence didn’t go down well with many fans. Rennae Stubbs, Serena Williams’ former coach, also had a go at Rune. According to Stubbs, Rune should be ashamed to “look himself in the mirror!” Stubbs also called Rune’s sportsmanship “horrendous” and delivered the same verdict for the umpiring.

Several fans followed in Stubbs’ footsteps as they echoed her sentiments. One fan predicted that Casper Ruud, Rune’s quarterfinal opponent, will defeat the Dane. The fan also called Rune a “cheating fraud”.

Another fan aimed a dig at Rune and termed his persona “disgusting”.

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Yet another fan claimed that Rune was “lucky” to go through to the quarterfinals.

One fan criticized not just Rune, but also his coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, who has also coached Serena Williams in the past.

Another fan called Rune a “cheater”.

Yet another fan had a go at Rune. Despite praising his tennis playing abilities, the called him “spoiled”.

Another fan compared Rune to his idol Roger Federer, who also went through a similar moment during his illustrious career. However, unlike Federer fanboy Rune, the Swiss maestro didn’t remain silent.

All in all, it’s safe to say that the criticism will keep coming Rune’s way for the remainder of the 2023 French Open.

Read More: Umpiring Controversy Casts Dark Shadow Over Holger Rune’s French Open Encounter Against Francisco Cerundolo as Video Replay Calls Grow Louder

What’s next for the under fire Rune?

Rune’s performance against Cerundolo was a mixed bag. Of course, he had his moments, but Cerundolo gave him a massive scare. One thing’s for sure, if Rune wants to go all the way to the final, he has to bring back his A game as Casper Ruud is up next.

Ruud enjoyed a far easier time against Chilean Nicolas Jarry in the fifth round and won in straight sets. After watching Rune’s unconvincing display against Cerundolo, Ruud would probably be thinking that he has a great chance of making it to the semis.

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