Holger Rune excited to face Fabio Fognini and "wild" Italian Open fans in upcoming 3R match-up

Holger Rune is looking forward to facing the boisterous crowd when he takes on home favorite Fabio Fognini in the third round of the 2023 Italian Open on Sunday, May 14.

Rune scored a 6-3, 6-3 victory over fellow youngster Arthur Fils in his opening match at the tournament. He is now through to the Round of 32, where he faces Italian veteran Fabio Fognini.

Fognini earned his spot in the third round by defeating Andy Murray and Miomir Kecmanovic.

After his second-round win, seventh seed Rune expressed excitement about the match against the soon-to-be 36-year-old Fognini, who is also known to be temperamental on the court.

“It’s gonna be wild, for sure. But, I mean, this is great because this is what’s tennis about. You already hear the football match now and this is great. This is fun. It brings tennis to another level. And I’m super excited for it,” Rune said in his on-court interview.

When asked about the 2019 Monte-Carlo Masters champion having the homecourt advantage, Rune stated that he expected nothing less and was prepared for the challenge.

“It's normal, you know -- when you play a player that’s playing at home. And Fabio, he is an experienced player. Played on the tour for so many years, so I have to be ready. He’s a great player,” the World No. 7 said.

Rune, who has experience in handling a charged-up crowd, said that such atmospheres are what he looks forward to. He also expressed hope that he will maintain his focus and enjoy the moment.

“[I’ll] just keep my focus and enjoy the moment because it’s gonna be, I guess, a big crowd and a big atmosphere, but again, this is what I love about tennis. It’s gonna be fun,” the Paris Masters champion said.

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The 2023 Italian Open match will be Holger Rune and Fabio Fognini's second meeting

Holger Rune at the 2023 Italian Open

The third round of the 2023 Italian Open will mark the second tour-level meeting between Holger Rune and Fabio Fognini. The two previously faced off in the opening round of the 2022 Canadian Open, where Rune clinched a 6-3, 7-5 win.

Despite the earlier result, Rune, contesting the Italian Open main draw for the first time, stated that he will have to be physically and mentally ready to face the experienced Italian.

“I played Fabio last year in Montreal. It was a good match from my side. He played well but I’m sure I have to be ready, mentally, physically and you know, I just have to prepare as best as possible,” the 20-year-old said.