Although Holger Rune has been to the quarter-finals in three different Grand Slams, the US Open at Flushing Meadows remains a tough nut for him to crack.
US Open 2023
Location: Flushing Meadows, New York
Dates: August 28 – September 10
Coverage: Extensive live text and radio updates available on Sport Newes Center’s website, app, BBC Radio 5 Live, and 5 Sports Extra.
In a surprising turn of events, fourth-seeded Holger Rune faced an unexpected defeat in the first round of the US Open, while Dominic Thiem made an emotional return to form.
Rune was toppled by Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena, who is ranked 65th globally, in a match that ended 6-3 4-6 6-3 6-2 on the less-glamorous Court Five.
The 20-year-old from Denmark, who had been quite vocal about his dissatisfaction with the court placement, failed to make it past the first hurdle.
Dominic Thiem, in contrast, registered his first Grand Slam match win in over 24 months by overcoming 25th seed Alexander Bublik.
Day one in the Big Apple also witnessed wins for last year’s finalist Casper Ruud and the 10th-seeded Frances Tiafoe.
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Rune, who recently made it to Wimbledon’s quarter-finals, seemed to be suffering from a lack of form. His two previous matches since Wimbledon had ended in losses, and a medical time-out for his left leg during the match seemed to indicate some physical distress as well.
In a post-defeat interview, Rune remarked that he was surprised by his Court Five assignment. “As you climb the rankings, you expect to play under better conditions. That’s generally how the ATP handles it. This time around, I guess they decided to throw me a curveball. Disappointing, yes, but let’s not make the court the scapegoat for my loss,” he stated.
Thiem Marks a Special Day
Next up for Dominic Thiem is world number 47 Ben Shelton in the second round. His last taste of Grand Slam success was at the 2021 Australian Open, where he made it to the fourth round. After six straight first-round exits in Grand Slams, Thiem looked visibly relieved to find his groove back in New York, a place filled with nostalgic victories for him.
In an emotional reflection, Thiem noted, “Winning here, at the US Open, where I had some of my fondest memories, means the world to me. Especially after a grueling wrist injury that took its sweet time to heal.”
His opponent Bublik, known for a rollercoaster style of play, failed to bring his A-game. He committed 17 double faults in a shaky performance, allowing Thiem to eventually serve out the match and look ahead to a showdown with upcoming American talent, Ben Shelton.
Thiem added, “Winning my 2020 Grand Slam felt like a private party due to the absence of fans. Now, the crowd is back, and I’m stoked to harness their energy for hopefully another deep run.”
Other Highlights from Day One
Casper Ruud, last year’s runner-up, started strong by defeating American qualifier Emilio Nava in a close encounter on Court 17.
Meanwhile, American favorite Frances Tiafoe, who had a spectacular semi-final run last year, comfortably moved to the second round by defeating compatriot Learner Tien.
In other news, Novak Djokovic is set to make his first US Open appearance since 2021 later today, going up against world number 84 Alexandre Muller. On Louis Armstrong Stadium, Stefanos Tsitsipas faces off against Milos Raonic, who is returning to professional tennis after a nearly two-year hiatus due to injury.
Keep up with live scores, news updates, and the complete order of play right here. Stay tuned, sports geeks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about US Open 2023 Results
Who suffered a surprising defeat in the first round of the US Open 2023?
Fourth-seeded Holger Rune experienced an unexpected loss in the opening round. He was defeated by world number 65 Roberto Carballes Baena of Spain on Court Five.
Which former champion made a successful comeback in this tournament?
Dominic Thiem, the former US Open champion, made a triumphant return by beating 25th seed Alexander Bublik. This win marked his first Grand Slam match victory in over two years.
What was Holger Rune’s main complaint before his match?
Holger Rune expressed dissatisfaction with his court assignment. He was assigned to Court Five, and he voiced that higher-ranked players generally get to play on better courts. However, he didn’t blame the court for his loss.
Who are the other notable winners on the first day?
Apart from Dominic Thiem, Casper Ruud, last year’s runner-up, and 10th-seeded Frances Tiafoe also clinched victories on the opening day of the US Open 2023.
What did Dominic Thiem say about his emotional win?
Thiem was visibly emotional and mentioned that the win was particularly special to him because it took place at the US Open, where he had previously won his first major title. He also spoke about recovering from a wrist injury that had affected his performance in prior tournaments.
What is the significance of the location, Flushing Meadows?
The US Open is held annually at Flushing Meadows in New York. This year, the tournament spans from August 28 to September 10.
Are there any high-profile matches to look forward to?
Yes, Novak Djokovic is set to make his first US Open appearance since 2021, and he will be facing world number 84 Alexandre Muller. Additionally, Stefanos Tsitsipas is going up against Milos Raonic, who is making a comeback after nearly two years due to injury.
How can one follow the tournament’s live coverage?
The tournament has extensive live text and radio updates available on the Sport Newes Center’s website, app, and also on BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra.
What’s the status of Frances Tiafoe in the tournament?
Frances Tiafoe, seeded 10th and remembered for his semi-final run in 2022, won his first-round match comfortably against fellow American Learner Tien.
Was there a medical timeout in any of the matches?
Yes, Holger Rune took a medical timeout during his match for treatment on his left leg. This seemed to indicate some level of physical distress, although he did not attribute his loss to this issue.
More about US Open 2023 Results
- US Open Official Site
- Sport Newes Center’s US Open Coverage
- BBC Sport Tennis Section
- Dominic Thiem’s Career Stats
- Holger Rune’s Player Profile
- Casper Ruud’s ATP Profile
- Frances Tiafoe’s Career Highlights
- Novak Djokovic’s Official Site
- Stefanos Tsitsipas on ATP Tour
- Milos Raonic’s Comeback Story
10 comments
Woah, Rune lost in the first round? That’s a shocker, didn’t see that one coming. This US Open’s already heating up!
Medical timeout for Rune might be an excuse, but let’s be honest, his form was shaky from the start.
Anyone else stoked for the Djokovic match? I mean, the guy’s a legend. Eager to see how he performs this year.
Thiem getting emotional was the highlight for me. Shows how much it means to him. Really rooting for the guy.
Anyone else excited for Tsitsipas vs Raonic? I’ve missed Milos on the court. Should be a solid match.
Frances Tiafoe won easily, huh? He was amazing last year. Hope he goes far again, that guy’s electric.
Dominic is back baby!! Two years without a Grand Slam win was just too long. New York, watch out!!
Whats up with Rune complaning bout the court? Man, you lost fair and square, get over it.
LOL, 17 double faults for Bublik? Talk about having an off day. And Thiem just breezed through.
Ruud’s win got buried under all these headlines. Keep an eye on him, he’s silently making his moves.