Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic praises ‘spectacular’ Holger Rune ahead of fourth-round showdown - ‘A lot of fireworks’
By James Hilsum
Published 08/07/2024 at 10:26 GMT+1
Novak Djokovic and Holger Rune looked ahead to their tantalising fourth-round clash on Monday, which completes the Centre Court line-up. This is the sixth meeting between the pair, with Djokovic leading the head-to-head record with three victories to Rune's two. Djokovic spoke about the healthy relationship which the two players share, while Rune also heaped praise on the Serb.
Wimbledon Day 7 highlights: Alcaraz & Sinner through as Raducanu & Gauff stunned
Video credit: SNTV
Novak Djokovic believes there will be "fireworks on court" when he takes on Holger Rune in a blockbuster fourth-round Wimbledon clash on Monday.
The world No. 2 heads into this clash after overcoming Alexei Popyrin in four sets, winning 4-6 6-3 6-4 7-6(3).
Meanwhile, Rune comes into the match after coming out on top in an epic five-setter against Quentin Halys.
He prevailed with a 1-6 7-6(4) 6-4 7-6(4) 6-1 victory on Saturday to set up a date with Djokovic.
The duo complete Monday’s Centre Court line-up and the 24-time Grand Slam champion is taking nothing for granted as he looks to avoid what would be a third career defeat against the young Dane.
He said: “When it comes to playing on the court and competing, obviously we both have that fire.
/origin-imgresizer.tntsports.io/2024/07/07/3999217-81160048-2560-1440.jpg)
Wimbledon Day 6 highlights: Djokovic battles through as Putintseva stuns world No. 1 Swiatek
Video credit: SNTV
“I'm sure that on Monday we'll see a lot of fireworks on the court. He's a spectacular player, no doubt. He loves the big stage, loves playing on grass. I think he's a very, very tricky opponent. It's going to take my best tennis to win.
"I actually get along very well with [Rune]. He's a very nice guy, always has been to me and to my team, and vice versa.
"I always try to be available to him for any practice or advice or guidance or anything like that," said Djokovic.”
That feeling of respect was mutual, as Rune lauded praise on the Serb, as he pursues a first Grand Slam title.
“I'm expecting a tough battle. I think that's always how it's going to be when you play Novak,” Rune said.
“He's one of the toughest competitors of all time and one of the most successful players, so I'm expecting nothing but a great level from him.”
Ahead of the Djokovic-Rune showdown, Elena Rybakina faces Anna Kalinskaya, and Taylor Fritz takes on Alexander Zverev.
- - -
Stream daily highlights from Wimbledon at 10pm UK time, as well as the two singles finals live on July 13 and 14, on discovery+
Related Topics
Advertisement
Advertisement