Shanghai Masters can’t catch a break. The Asian hardcourt event, recently criticized for poor scheduling has now caught wind of Holger Rune‘s remarks. The Dane is looking to restore his lost form after enduring several tough losses this season. However, what’s more troubling to Rune, is a distinctive and hilarious issue at the tournament he notably faced during his second-round showdown.

The young talent landed in Shanghai on the back of a disheartening semifinal loss at the Japan Open. Hoping to lift his maiden crown of the year, Rune launched his encounter against Matteo Berrettini. Despite facing a one-set deficit, he capitalized on his strengths and bounced back to force a tiebreaker. Thrilling, as it sounds – however – the Dane voiced tackling an unusual issue mid-match. Iterating his concerns, the Dane notified the chair umpire regarding an off-putting smell on the court.

The former World No. 4 highlighted how the smell left similar traces when smoking a cigarette… something he is accustomed to because his mother (Aneke Rune) is a regular smoker. “It’s just around here. I’m used to a smoking mum so (laughs). Maybe there’s some AC in this room”. To much hilarity, some might believe that Rune took a sly dig at his mother’s habits while addressing his concerns in Shanghai. Besides, we’ve all seen clips of his mother casually lighting cigarettes during his appearance on Netflix’s documentary, Point Break.

Touching down on modest success on tour-level events, Rune has remained adamant on finding success at Grand Slams. Moreover, the aftermath saw the Danish star twice split with coach Patrick Mouratoglou. However, the young talent’s formidability is seemingly resurfacing. After all, he registered a comeback victory over his R2 Italian rival.

Holger Rune expresses elation after downing Matteo Berrettini in Shanghai

Danish sensation Holger Rune was far from throwing in the towel when facing resistance from Matteo Berrettini. Poised to further his agenda at the Shanghai Masters, the 21-year-old overcame the Italian player’s challenge in a dramatic fashion. After receiving a first-round bye, Rune’s R2 contest saw him pocket a thrilling comeback victory over Berrettini, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.

In an on-court interview, the Dane voiced his first-hand insight into the encounter and later, expressed his excitement prevailing over the tough duel. “I made a few errors, but then he was just on me. He didn’t allow me to make many mistakes. Every time he got slightly central or short, I was there to punish his shots. It was a good match, honestly. I think the tennis was very high quality. We were hitting a lot of winners, good serves, good movement, so I’m very happy to start my tournament like this.” 

Next up, the Dane will lock horns with Jiri Lehecka in the event’s third round on Tuesday, October 8. After an average run this year, Rune is likely vying for a noteworthy conclusion to the season, and, with it, re-enter the Top 10 in rankings.