Not many assumed they would be seeing two 20-year-old players competing in the quarterfinals of the Wimbledon Championships. But Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune have taken the grass Major by storm and have delighted fans with their displays, also indicating a bright future for the sport.
The two talented youngsters are now set to compete against each other on Wednesday for a place in the last four. Alcaraz will be taking on Rune for a spot in the semifinal and this match has all the makings of being a cracker.
Alcaraz and Rune both overcome sluggish starts
Yesterday both players faced one of their sternest tests. Alcaraz was up against 2021 finalist Matteo Berrettini. The match began with the Italian taking control of the match, claiming the opening set.
Once the second set began, however, the Spaniard changed his tactics and started coming to net more often that he did in the previous set, and was successful in his approach. He began dismantling Berrettini tactically and thus claimed the next three sets, winning the match 3-6 6-3 6-3 6-3.
In the other match Rune was facing former semifinalist Grigor Dimitrov. Similarly to the Spaniard’s match, Rune was down a set before lifting his level. He then stretched the Bulgarian into a tiebreaker in the second and third sets, winning them both, playing the clutch points with firmness. In the end, the one break was enough for him to book a spot in the quarterfinals. The Great Dane won the match 3-6, 7-6(6), 7-6(4), 6-3.
Carlos Alcaraz vs Holger Rune: Prediction & Head-to-Head
These two have known each other since their younger days and have even played doubles together in the past. However, both, Alcaraz and Rune have faced each other twice in their professional careers, with a win for each player. The last meeting ended up with the Holger winning the match as Carlos retired due to injury.
Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune playing doubles together at 13 years of age 😍 (via @LesPetitsAs) pic.twitter.com/HebOK9bnwL
— Luigi Gatto (@gigicat7_) July 10, 2023
As most players nowadays, Alcaraz and Rune like dictate play from the baseline. They have a similar style of play, from the baseline with some fierce striking from either side of the court.
Although, the former Grand Slam winner is more fresh having spent lesser time on the court. Too add to it, Alcaraz even won the Queen’s title towards the build up of the Championships, giving his the added confidence coming into this match.
Prediction: Carlos Alcaraz to win in four sets.
