Holger Rune is preparing to lead Denmark into one of its most significant Davis Cup ties in recent history. The matchup against Spain, scheduled for Saturday in Marbella, marks a pivotal moment for the Danish team, which has never won the prestigious competition. Rune, currently ranked No. 11 in the world, spoke to the press on Thursday after a focused training session on Wednesday, expressing optimism and determination ahead of the clash.
Spain’s legacy looms large
Despite the absence of Carlos Alcaraz, Spain remains a formidable opponent. With six Davis Cup titles to its name, the Spanish squad carries a legacy of excellence and depth. Captain David Ferrer will rely on experienced players like Jaume Munar, Pedro Martínez, Roberto Carballés Baena, and Pablo Carreño Busta to maintain Spain’s competitive edge on home soil. The tie will be played on clay at the Puente Romano Tennis Club, a surface that traditionally favors Spanish players.
Denmark’s momentum builds
Denmark arrives in Marbella riding a wave of momentum after a dramatic comeback victory over Serbia in the previous round. Rune led the charge in that tie, helping his team recover from a 0–2 deficit to win 3–2. Alongside Elmer Moller, August Holmgren, Christian Sigsgaard, and doubles specialist Johannes Ingildsen, Rune forms a cohesive and ambitious unit. Former pro Frederik Nielsen serves as team captain, guiding the squad with strategic insight and calm leadership.
Alcaraz’s absence reshapes expectations
Carlos Alcaraz, fresh off his US Open triumph, withdrew from the tie due to physical fatigue following a demanding American swing. His absence, along with that of Alejandro Davidovich Fokina and Marcel Granollers, reshapes the dynamics of the matchup. While Spain still fields a capable team, the loss of its top-ranked player opens the door for Denmark to challenge more aggressively.
A clash of ambition and tradition
Saturday’s tie is more than a contest of rankings—it’s a meeting of rising ambition and established tradition. Rune’s confidence reflects Denmark’s growing stature in international tennis, while Spain’s depth and experience remain a powerful force. With both teams eager to secure a spot in the Davis Cup Finals, fans can expect a weekend of high-stakes tennis and compelling narratives.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
Currently ranked no.1, Alcaraz played his last match on the 7th
of September when he beat world no.2 Jannik Sinner 6-2 3-6 6-1 6-4 in the final of the U.S. Open to win his 24th career title.At present, during this year Carlos has achieved a composed 61-6 record. The Spaniard has won 7 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati and U.S. Open. Alcaraz got to the final in Barcelona and Wimbledon.
He is also scheduled to play in Tokyo (Japan Open Tennis Championships) on the 24th of September and Shanghai (Shanghai Rolex Masters) on the 1st of October.
Holger Rune in 2025
Currently the world no.11, Rune played his last match on the 27th of August when he was overcome by world no.98 Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6(5) 2-6 6-3 4-6 7-5 in the 2nd round of the U.S. Open (draw).
During this season Holger has achieved an overall 28-17 record. This year, Rune lifted the trophy in Barcelona. Holger was the finalist in Indian Wells.
Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune fought against each other 4 times. Their actual record is 2-2.