Denmark's Next Gen star Holger Rune promises to find solutions and bounce back from his latest setback at the Shanghai Masters.
A 6-0, 6-2 drubbing at the hands of Brandon Nakashima on Friday condemned the highly talented Rune to his ninth defeat in his last 10 matches at all levels.
He has been replaced by Jannik Sinner in the world's top four as he returns to Europe for the indoor hard-court swing. If his dire form persists, Rune might exit the world's Top 10.
He's got two title defenses coming up including a massive one at the Paris Masters, which kicks off on October 30th.
The 20-year-old enters a crucial stretch in his season where he defends the bulk of his ranking points, precisely 1,550. Rune has dealt with a spate of problems this season.
One of those is his coaching situation in which he made the bold move to part ways with French tactician Patrick Mouratoglou and reinstated longtime coach Lars Christensen.
Aside from that, Rune has battled a back injury which contributed to inadequate practice time at the China Open. This was meant to ease himself into the competition phase.
Despite snapping a seven-match losing streak in Beijing (against another struggling opponent in Auger-Aliassime), he struggled to sustain his rhythm and level in the subsequent round.
And the manner of his defeat to Nakashima in Shanghai has resulted in the young Dane getting a barrage of online abuse, which has shaken her family who are dealing with the situation with utmost seriousness.
Rune has since taken to Instagram to issue an update on his recent loss, acknowledging he didn't meet his supporters' expectations, especially those in the Asian continent in China, whose thirst for Tour-level tennis lasted four years.
"I will figure things out and come back fighting again. Whatever it takes. I am truly sorry to let down my supporters yesterday. And to all my fans in China, I can’t wait to see you again and be in great shape next year. Shanghai Masters is an amazing tournament."
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