Holger Rune suffers surprise defeat to Tallon Griekspoor at Madrid Open as Dane’s wait for first title of 2024 continues

Holger Rune was beaten 6-4 4-6 6-4 by Tallon Griekspoor as the Dutchman reached the last 16 of the Madrid Open on Sunday.

The win for the world No. 25 keeps him in with a chance of winning his first singles trophy of the year.

In his previous tie, Rune had needed three sets to battle past Mariano Novone, while Griekspoor had an easier time against Taro Daniel in his last match-up in Spain.

Rune is yet to land a title this year, and he failed to land the first set as it initially went with serve before the Dane was broken late on, and conceded the first 6-4.

Now ranked No. 12 in the world after dropping out of the top 10, he broke immediately in the first game of the second set to hint at a potential comeback.

Rune claimed the second set with the reverse scoreline to set up a decisive third, but was quickly broken in the third set and found himself trailing 3-1, with Griekspoor on serve and able to extend his lead further, going on to claim the winning set 6-4.

The round of 16 takes place on Tuesday, April 30.