Rune Overcomes Comesana in Three-Set Thriller at Italian Open

Holger Rune comes from behind to defeat Francisco Comesana 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a thrilling match at the Rome Masters, advancing to the third round.

Holger Rune staged an impressive comeback on Friday night to advance to the third round of the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Rome. He defeated Argentina's Francisco Comesana 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a thrilling match that lasted nearly three hours.

Rune recovered well from losing the first set, showcasing his resilience and skill to claim victory in the next two sets. This win secures his spot in the third round of the Italian Open.

Holger Rune overcame a tough challenge from Francisco Comesana at the Foro Italico, winning 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 to advance to the third round of the Italian Open.

Rune's next opponent will be French player Corentin Moutet, ranked 83rd in the world. Comesana, ranked 63rd, proved to be a formidable opponent on clay, pushing Rune to his limits in a closely contested match. Having had a first-round bye, Rune lacked match practice heading into the contest.

Rune had a slow start, struggling to find his rhythm as Comesana took the first three games with a single break of serve. The court conditions were subpar, with Rune expressing frustration over holes behind the baseline that staff attempted to fix during the match.

The uneven surface likely contributed to Rune's early struggles, but he eventually adjusted and staged a strong comeback to take the match in three sets.

Comesana extended his lead to 4-1, but a grueling 20-minute game followed, which Rune eventually won. Although it wasn't enough to change the outcome of the first set, the lengthy game appeared to shift momentum in Rune's favor heading into the second set.

World #10 and Barcelona champ Holger Rune survives an incredible battle against Francisco Comesana to reach the 3rd round in Rome.

3-6, 6-3, 6-4.

2h56!

FABULOUS match and atmosphere. pic.twitter.com/z3ZUi9Z36m

— José Morgado (@josemorgado) May 9, 2025

Rune's fortunes reversed in the second set, as he played with renewed energy and precision, making fewer errors. Meanwhile, Comesana's form faltered, allowing Rune to seize control and level the match.

Rune's momentum in the second set led to a crucial break of serve, giving him a 4-1 lead. He then closed out the set convincingly, evening the match and setting himself up for a deciding third set.

The third set saw the roles reverse, with Rune facing a 0-2 deficit after losing his serve. However, he immediately broke back, showcasing his determination with a fist pump. Rune then held his serve to level the set at 2-2, fending off four break points and snuffing out Comesana's momentum.

Rune took control of the second set, breaking to lead 4-3 and setting himself up for a crucial advantage. Despite Comesana's persistent efforts, Rune's momentum proved decisive.

Rune ultimately capitalized on his second match point, securing a hard-fought victory and advancing to the next round after a grueling match that tested both players' limits.