In 2022, Holger Rune played against Novak Djokovic twice, first in the Paris Masters finals and then in the Italian Open quarterfinals. Rune won both ties, much to everyone’s astonishment. Despite this, the Danish star has no Grand Slam titles and only four ATP titles in his trophy cabinet. This is why he has teamed up with Boris Becker, who used to coach Djokovic and helped him win six Grand Slam and 14 ATP titles in two years.
In addition, Holger Rune has been in terrible form since July, losing 10 out of 11 matches. His most recent loss came in the second round of the Stockholm Open, and he has been struggling with a back issue for months.
Holger Rune looks to gain edge over Novak Djokovic
World no. 6 Holger Rune revealed that it has been an exciting period learning from tennis coach Boris Becker and that he is stealing some great information about Novak Djokovic. Boris Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champion, coached Novak Djokovic between 2014 and 2016, during which the Serbian star won six Grand Slam titles and 14 ATP Masters 1000 tournaments.
“It’s great to learn from players like (Boris) and from Rafa [Nadal], Roger [Federer] and Novak,” said the Dane in an interview prior to the Basel ATP 500 tournament. It would be good to steal a bit from what they did. They got so many things right. Boris did well as a coach of Djokovic and as a player. I’m excited to hear what he has to say. Boris is teaching me things that are basic but important. It’s gonna be nice, you’ll see. I hope he can give me as much advice as possible and help me do better.”
Holger Rune also addressed the fact that Boris Becker will not be able to accompany him to Wimbledon next year. The former world No 1 is currently banned from entering the UK under the terms of his release from jail. “I didn’t think about that. I know the rules (laws) of course. It’s not a big problem and it would be great if he can go, but let’s see,” said the 20-year-old.
In April 2022, Boris Becker was found guilty for hiding £2.5million in assets and loans to avoid paying debts and declaring himself bankrupt. He was jailed for two and a half years but served only eight months of his sentence and was deported to Germany in December 2022.
Djokovic’s ex-coach Boris Becker starts working with Rune
Holger Rune revealed he is to work with Djokovic’s ex-coach Boris Becker, ahead of his preparation for the Swiss indoor tournament in Basel on October 25.
During an interview with Eurosport, Boris Becker confirmed the report: “I can confirm that I am Holger Rune’s coach. It makes me a little proud that he asked me. The contact has existed for a long time. Now it was a very good fit. My calendar allows it and I have always been interested in Holger because he is on the tennis court with so much commitment and temperament.”
“Holger then invited me to a training week in Monte-Carlo. I also had a long chat there with his mother Aneke and his performance coach Lapo Becherini. The three of us are responsible for Holger from now on. Unfortunately, I can’t be at the tournament in Stockholm this week because of previously arranged appointments,” Becker added.
With this new development for Holger Rune, the question many fans would have in mind would be simply: would Boris Becker change his poor form and make him as good as Djokovic?
