French Open 2023: 'Anything can happen' – Holger Rune says Roland-Garros is wide open with no Rafael Nadal

Holger Rune believes Rafael Nadal’s absence from the French Open has completely opened up the Grand Slam. The 14-time winner at Roland-Garros pulled out with a hip injury and the Dane highlighted a number of big names that are waiting to claim victory in Paris. Ad He said: “I think for sure it's more open as Rafa is not here, but again, we still have Novak [Djokovic], we have [Carlos] Alcaraz.

Roland-Garros menRune says he 'would do anything to win' French Open after overcoming steely Eubanks14 HOURS AGO “I think still Novak must be the favourite as he has 22 Grand Slams, and so much experience in these tournaments. “It's more open because Rafa has won here 14 times, so he would be the main favourite if he was here. “Now I saw Daniil [Medvedev], he lost today [to Thiago Seyboth Wild].

Yeah, anything can happen." Exclusive: 'Leave it to Twitter or the media' — Swiatek plays down incredible 'bagel' record Major shock as Medvedev dumped out by world No. 172 Seyboth Wild Alcaraz 'greatest I've ever seen at 20', says McEnroe, labels rival Rune 'the real deal' Rune secured safe passage through to the second round with a 6-4 3-6 7-6(2) 6-2 victory over Christopher Eubanks, but was made to sweat by the American. After the first three sets ebbed and flowed both ways, Rune comprehensively won the fourth to set up a meeting with Gael Monfils on Thursday.

Speaking after the match, he said: “It was super difficult. “There’s always first-round nerves, and Chris played very freely, hitting well and serving big. I had to adjust to the conditions.

“This is one of my favourite tournaments, and I would do anything to win Roland-Garros. “The atmosphere is unbelievable. It’s one of the best tennis countries in the world.