US Open: Holger Rune Edges Past Botic van de Zandschulp in Thrilling Match

Rune overcomes Van de Zandschulp in three sets at US Open

Holger Rune secures a 6-3, 7-6, 7-6 win over Botic van de Zandschulp in a grueling US Open match, advancing to the second round...

Holger Rune survived a nail-biting match against Dutch qualifier Botic van de Zandschulp, ultimately emerging victorious with a 6-3, 7-6, 7-6 win...

Despite being the 11th seed, Rune faced a tough challenge from Van de Zandschulp, ranked 73rd in the world, but managed to capitalize on关键 moments to secure his spot in the second round.

Holger Rune's US Open campaign got off to a winning start, a relief for the Danish player who was knocked out in the first round in both 2023 and 2024. Despite not playing his best tennis, Rune secured a three-set victory over Botic van de Zandschulp, winning 6-3, 7-6, 7-6.

Rune's opponent, Van de Zandschulp, struggled with double faults, committing 11 throughout the match. The Dutch player, ranked 78th in the world, had reached the final of the Winston-Salem Open the week before the US Open, which might have affected his performance due to late arrival in New York. Despite his recent form, Rune will look to build on this win as he progresses in the tournament.

A straight sets start for Holger 😌

Rune books the second round with a 6-3, 7-6(4), 7-6(2) win over Botic van de Zandsculp. 💪#USOpen pic.twitter.com/tPGh4UKxCB

— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) August 25, 2025

The six matches Van de Zandschulp played last week seemed to catch up with him, as the Dutchman appeared worn out from the start. He struggled to find his timing, and Rune capitalized on his opponent's fatigue. The Dane took an early 3-0 lead in the first set and, despite later inconsistencies, managed to serve out the set 6-3.

Van de Zandschulp's exhaustion was evident throughout the match, but Rune also had his share of unforced errors. Despite neither player being at their best, Rune's experience and skill ultimately gave him the edge he needed to win.

The second set began similarly, with Van de Zandschulp making numerous mistakes, but Rune failed to capitalize on them effectively. The Dutchman took a 2-1 lead, and during this period, he received medical attention. Despite the treatment, Van de Zandschulp's struggles persisted, and the set ultimately went to a tiebreak.

In the tiebreak, Rune had a set point against him at 5-6 but managed to turn the tables and win the set 7-6. This narrow victory gave Rune momentum heading into the third set, where he would face another test against the fatigued Van de Zandschulp.

The tiebreak was a nail-biter, with Rune initially taking a 4-1 lead. However, Van de Zandschulp staged a mini-comeback, forcing Rune to fight hard to win the tiebreak 7-4. Rune's relief was short-lived, as he required medical treatment for a stomach issue after the set. Fortunately, the treatment seemed to do the trick, and Rune continued without appearing hampered.

In the third set, Rune quickly took a 4-0 lead, and it seemed like Van de Zandschulp was done for the day. However, Rune lost focus, allowing Van de Zandschulp to mount a comeback and level the set at 4-4. The Dutchman's determination paid off, and he even had a chance to break Rune's serve again and take a 5-4 lead.

Holger Rune refocused and dominated the third set tiebreak, taking a 5-0 lead before winning it 7-2 on his second match point. This decisive victory secured Rune's spot in the second round of the US Open. Rune's next opponent will be determined by the match between Mackenzie McDonald and Jan-Lennard Struff.

According to recent predictions, Jan-Lennard Struff is favored to win against Mackenzie McDonald, but the match's outcome remains uncertain. Rune's performance in the US Open has been notable, especially after overcoming a tough match against Botic van de Zandschulp.

Match Highlights

Third Set Drama: Rune squandered a 4-0 lead in the third set, allowing Van de Zandschulp to push the set to a tiebreaker, which Rune eventually won 7-6.

Consistent Performance: Rune dominated the first set, winning it 6-3, and then fought hard to take the second set 7-6.

Mental Toughness: Despite struggling with double faults, Rune showed mental toughness to overcome adversity and secure the win.

No.11 seed Holger Rune closes out van de Zandschulp in three sets! pic.twitter.com/Zicp4y8DbE

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 25, 2025

What's Next for Rune?

With this win, Rune advances to the second round of the US Open, where he'll set his sights on his next opponent. Rune's performance showcases his growing prowess on the court, and fans can expect exciting matches from him in the tournament.

Notable Statistics:

• Aces: Van de Zandschulp hit 6 aces during the match.
• Double Faults: Rune struggled with 11 double faults, while Van de Zandschulp had 11 as well.
• First Serve Points Won: Rune won 64% of his first serve points.