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Novak Djokovic's preparations for the French Open were dealt another blow on Wednesday when the world No. 1 was defeated by Holger Rune in the quarterfinals of the Italian Open.
Rune, 20, prevailed in rainy conditions as rain continues to affect play in Rome, winning 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 to earn his second consecutive victory over Djokovic after his victory in the final of the November Paris Masters.
It will be the first time since 2004 that neither Djokovic nor Rafael Nadal will be in the Italian Open final, according to the ATP.
“It's really a big win for me,” World No. 7 Rune told the ATP Tour. “Obviously I did it last year in Paris too, but every match is a big challenge for me when I play against Novak. He is one of the best to ever play the game.
“I knew I had to give my best… and today I did it. I'm super proud of myself and enjoyed every moment there. I stay humble, of course. I have a lot to achieve. I think you should always be humble. I think so, I hope so and I hope that people see me that way.
“I am a great fighter on the court and I leave everything when I play my matches. I am very proud to have been able to get the victory today. I had to fight hard and play my best tennis. Great credit to Novak, I am a big fan of his. He is a great inspiration and I wish him all the best.”
The loss marks another disappointing clay court tournament for Djokovic, who has now failed to advance beyond the quarter-finals in his three events on the red surface ahead of the French Open, which begins on May 28.
The Serbian, a six-time champion in Rome, also appeared to have physical problems during the match and required a medical timeout before winning the second set after a rain delay.
Djokovic was returning to the court after his absence from the recent Madrid Open due to an elbow injury and the 22-time Grand Slam champion still looked well below his best.
However, credit must go to Rune for a brilliant performance that will cement his place among the title contenders at Roland Garros.
The Dane, participating in his first Italian Open, will play either Casper Ruud or Francisco Cerundolo in the semi-finals as the 20-year-old seeks a second Masters 1000 title of his career.
