It was another forgettable trip to Buenos Aires for Holger Rune. The Danish star, seeded second at the 2025 Argentina Open, crashed out in his opening match yet again, falling to Mariano Navone 6-1, 7-6(2).
Rune’s Argentina Curse Continues
Rune’s struggles in Buenos Aires have become a pattern. In 2021, he lost in the first round to Albert Ramos-Vinolas. In 2022, it was Sebastian Baez who sent him packing early. This time, after receiving a first-round bye, Rune failed to win a single match at the ATP 250 event for the third time in as many appearances.
But beyond the loss, Rune’s body language and performance raised eyebrows. He appeared disinterested, rushed points, shanked multiple shots into the stands, and recklessly approached the net. It left many wondering if he was injured or simply out of sorts.
Lingering Illness and Sudden Surface Switch Prove Costly
After his loss in Rotterdam last week, Rune revealed he was battling influenza, and it seems he returned to action too soon. Moving from the indoor hard courts of Rotterdam to the clay courts of Buenos Aires in just a few days only compounded his struggles.
Following his loss, Rune took to social media to apologize to fans and explain his physical struggles.
“Absolutely not the result I wanted tonight. Thank you, Argentina, for having me. You have a beautiful country, and I felt welcome here. Looking back, I think it was too early to play after my influenza last week. My shoulder was not working, and my whole body seemed extremely vulnerable. I will take the time and get proper rest now. When the body is not there, the brain shuts down, and I am just very sorry I couldn’t deliver what I wanted on court today. Sorry, Argentina.”
Will Rune Play in Rio? Doubts Grow Over His Schedule
Rune is scheduled to compete next at the Rio Open, an ATP 500 event in Brazil. However, given his physical condition and poor form, there’s a real possibility he may withdraw to focus on recovery for the Sunshine Double (Indian Wells and Miami).
With a lingering shoulder issue, an illness that clearly hasn’t fully passed, and fatigue from rapid travel and surface transitions, Rune must decide whether pushing through is worth the risk—or if it’s time to hit the reset button before the ATP season heats up.
