Holger Rune Tore Apart Rafael Nadal’s Wall Poster to Shift Allegiance to Roger Federer as a 7-YO Kid

Holger Rune is trying to bring back that 2022 magic in 2024. The tennis star dreamed of being the world no.1 when he was just 7 years old. Before picking the Swiss tennis maestro as his idol, the young Dane had posters of Rafael Nadal on his wall. But after a particularly terrible loss, he tore those posters down in frustration.

“Hang Federer on the wall,” Rune said, with absolute determination to chase only the winner’s position from that day onwards. “From now on I want to be world number one.” The Danish player’s journey to be a professional tennis player started when he picked up a racket at a young age. When little Holger Rune faced defeat at a mixed tennis tournament in Copenhagen, his frustration at coming in second made him refuse to lift the runner-up trophy. After all, being third is still more acceptable to an athlete than realizing one lacked just a little something to be no. 1.

Besides not taking home the victory prize, Rune also gained doubts about his then-idol Rafael Nadal. Heading back home with sheer disappointment, the young Dane did not quite realize what he was setting in motion.

While it seemed like a kid’s tantrum back then, the rant kept growing in Rune’s heart and therefore emerged into a dream that he still carries. This moment ignited a fire within him, making him chase one single goal: to become the best in the world at tennis. As he continues to give all he has to climb the ranks of professional tennis, that determination burns bright within him. However, the incident remains to be well inclined with the aspirations that he currently carries.

Holger Rune’s refusal to be the runner-up

Holger Rune’s childhood tale of replacing Rafael Nadal’s posters with that of Roger Federer was just the start of his dreams to be on top. Recently, the tennis star appeared in an interview with the Monte Carlo Masters team and took time to express his desire to be on top of the game.

“My goal is to be No. 1 in the world and win Grand Slams,” he said, stating his aspirations to gain more wins. Along with that, his mother Aneke Rune, who has been a crucial part of his professional tennis career, also affirmed his words.

“He said, ‘I never want to be No. 2,” Aneke shared, mentioning the fact that it has always been his choice. As Rune continues to navigate through competition, it still remains to be seen if he will be able to reach the spot he always wished for.