Holger Rune was left gobsmacked when he learned that tennis icon Roger Federer listed him among tennis' next generation of superstars alongside Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Federer spoke to Eurosport in the build-up to this year's Laver Cup where he is participating in a non-playing capacity. It's been a year since he officially retired from the sport, but the Swiss legend shared his excitement about the current landscape in tennis and his optimism for the future.
Federer showered praise on 19-year-old Coco Gauff for her meteoric rise which culminated with a first Grand Slam title at this year's US Open. Federer called it a highly special and unique achievement, having known her for about five years.
The 42-year-old then shifted his focus on the men's ecosystem where he singled out the young trio of Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Holger Rune as the likeliest candidates to lead the ATP in the coming years.
Federer stated that he was unfortunate to miss out on playing them, but he's delighted to take a back seat and watch them in action, and so far he's enjoying what he is seeing. Denmark's Rune shared a surprised reaction at being mentioned by the legendary Swiss and in such a distinguished company.
"I admit it. I am starstruck I had to listen twice, (maybe 3-4 times ), Roger mentioning my name #legend.
Rune has broken through big time on the ATP Tour. The 20-year-old sensation defeated Novak Djokovic to win his first Masters 1000 title at the Paris Masters at the backend of last year. Rune has motored through the rankings this season, reaching the world's Top 5 for the first time in his career.
The young Dane missed out on the chance to meet Federer, having pulled out from this year's Laver Cup due to injury. Rune will focus on getting his health back and vie for one of the five remaining slots at the season-ending Nitto ATP Finals in Turin.
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