The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) has initiated a lawsuit against the ATP, WTA, ITF, and ITIA, alleging anti-competitive practices and a lack of focus on player welfare. As part of the case, Holger Rune’s involvement in the Saudi Arabia exhibition event, the Six Kings Slam, has drawn attention. Rune, who was not a Grand Slam champion or ranked within the ATP top 10 at the time, was the only player with such a profile included in the event.

A proposal has been made to grant players eliminated in the early rounds of tennis Grand Slams—Wimbledon, the French Open, the Australian Open, and the US Open—the opportunity to participate in other tournaments during the second week of these events. Advocates argue that this change could provide substantial benefits, especially for players ranked outside the top tier.

Currently, players who do not progress past the initial stages of major tournaments are often left with limited options, watching their higher-ranked competitors continue to earn significant rewards. Allowing early-exit players to compete elsewhere would open doors to earn prize money and maintain match sharpness, rather than remaining on the sidelines for the duration of the tournament.

The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) has used the example of Holger Rune to highlight the benefits of such opportunities. Rune participated in an exhibition event during a tournament, leveraging the chance to gain exposure and financial support despite being outside the top 10 rankings at the time. This scenario underscores how alternative competitions could benefit players who might otherwise be restricted by current rules.

The lawsuit challenges restrictions that prevent players from participating in non-sanctioned events during major tournaments. It claims that these limitations reduce opportunities for players to secure additional income, particularly those who are eliminated early in competitions. Rune’s participation in the exhibition is used to demonstrate alternative pathways for players, though its connection to the broader legal argument has prompted mixed reactions.

Some fans didn’t have it clear the connection between suing the ATP and shading Rune and the Saudi Arabia exhibition. 

A fan on Reddit commented: “Aside from the shade at Rune, what are they even arguing? they’re suing the ATP, why are they talking about which player a Saudi billionaire wants to invite to their exhibition?”

This is what was written in the document.

This legal move reflects the PTPA’s broader mission to reform the structure of tennis, focusing on player rights, scheduling, and ranking systems. The governing bodies, however, have firmly denied the accusations, defending their policies and the current system.

Holger Rune in 2025

Now ranked no.12, the Dane played his last match on the 16^th of March when he was defeated by world no.7 Jack Draper 6-2 6-2 in the final in Indian Wells (draw).

This year the Dane has managed to achieve a 11-7 win-loss record. Holger Rune’s latest run in Indian Wells was the best achievement of his season.