Holger Rune lost in the first round of the 2023 US Open, but as he revealed, he never considered not playing his match.
The 20-year-old Dane certainly took care of the biggest surprise on Monday, but it wasn't a positive surprise. However, since Rune struggled with injuries for some time, it was expected that he wasn't 100% fit during his four-set defeat to Roberto Carballes Baena.
But following another painful loss at the US Open, the Danish player gave insight into his warrior mentality: pain is just a part of the game. From wrist aches to back problems, the 20-year-old has seemingly endured it all. But what's most surprising isn't that he's faced these injuries; it's his approach to handling them.
Many top-tier athletes will be seen frequently visiting clinics, seeking scans at the slightest twinge in their bodies. They'll often employ a team of physiotherapists and medical professionals to ensure that everything is in tip-top shape before stepping onto the court. Rune, however, takes a different approach.
"I never consider not to play tournaments even though I'm hurt. I mean, of course I know if it's something dangerous I will not play. But also, I'm the kind of person I don't check everything if I'm hurt. I don't get a scan every time I feel something."
To the untrained eye, this might seem reckless. Why wouldn't an athlete at the top of his game want to ensure his body's in the best possible condition? But delve deeper into Rune's philosophy, and it starts making sense.
It's not that he's dismissive of injuries. Instead, he recognizes that the life of a sportsperson is inherently filled with physical challenges. Every athlete, from those at local clubs to Grand Slam champions, has had their bouts with pain – be it the result of rigorous training, a tough match, or the wear and tear of constant travel.
"It's like I think it's normal when you're athlete, you feel your body. If you don't, that's ridiculous. But I think many players do, and I think it's a part of the job. It's a part you need to learn how to handle when you have pain or when you feel sore or whatever. Yeah, it's a part of it."
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