Holger Rune’s collaboration with fitness coach Marco Panichi, Novak Djokovic’s former long-time trainer, began shortly after Wimbledon with the goal of building strength and consistency. Just three months later, Rune suffered a devastating Achilles tendon rupture, one of the most serious injuries on the ATP Tour this season. The 22-year-old underwent successful surgery but faces a lengthy recovery period.
Early signs of progress
Recently, Rune was seen lightly hitting balls while wearing a protective boot. Although encouraging, the 2022 Paris Masters champion is expected to miss at least the opening months of the 2026 season. His return will depend on carefully following the rehabilitation program designed by Panichi.
Panichi’s structured approach
Marco Panichi emphasized that Rune’s recovery requires discipline and adherence to a strict plan.
“We restored order. First of all in load management, then in the quality of movement. Holger always tends to give his all, but when you need to recover, you need discipline: progression, controlled intensity, respect for the times. In certain moments, the right thing to do is to slow him down,” Panichi said to Ubitennis.
He added that the focus is on rebuilding confidence and balance in Rune’s movements.
“Restoring symmetry, balance, and confidence in his movements. An explosive athlete like him needs to feel his body free. When he starts to trust his support and acceleration again, everything changes. He’s moving the way he wants to again. He’s started to feel his body fluid again. He’s young, he reacts well, and he’s a quick learner. The key is to empower him to express his intensity, but efficiently.”, Panichi commented.
Rune’s season before injury
Prior to the setback in Stockholm, Rune had compiled a 36-22 record in 2025 and claimed the ATP 500 title in Barcelona. His performances highlighted his potential to challenge at the top of the game, making his recovery crucial for the next stage of his career.
With Panichi’s guidance, Rune is expected to gradually regain his physical strength and confidence. The Danish star’s discipline during this period will determine how quickly he can return to the ATP Tour and continue his pursuit of tennis success.
Holger Rune in 2025
Now ranked no.15, Holger played his last match on the 18th of October when he had to retire when playing against world no.37 Ugo Humbert in the semifinal and the scoreline was 4-6 2-2 .
At present, during this year Rune has achieved a composed 36-22 match record. This year, the Dane lifted the trophy in Barcelona. The Dane was the finalist in Indian Wells.
He is also scheduled to play in Brisbane (Brisbane International). The main draw will start on the 29th of December.
