French Open 2023: Scandinavian rivals Holger Rune and Casper Ruud set to meet a year on from explosive row

The row erupted when Rune claimed that Ruud gloated in his face after winning 6-1 4-6 7-6(2) 6-3 on the night.

Rune’s claims were denied by Ruud’s camp, with his father Christian telling Eurosport: “It is simply a lie from Holger.”

In response, Rune’s mother Aneke said: “One thing is that you shout in my son’s face. Another thing is that the father is lying to the press.”

“It never happened. It’s a big lie. It’s disappointing that he creates lies about me,” he said.

“Obviously there was drama last year and I hope we can make less drama this year,” Rune said ahead of the rematch.

“We played each other in Rome. It was a good match, I think.

“He’s a good player. I respect him. There’s no problem; we’re good. It should be a match without problems, hopefully. I’m just looking forward for it. Obviously, I lost last year.

“It’s going to be the same scenario; we play in a quarter-final. Hopefully I can turn it around and make it different this year.”

He continued: “I think last year it was a great match.

“It was a really close second and third set. He played great. He played I think one of his best tournaments last year here. So it’s going to be a tough match.

“I played him last tournament in Rome; managed to get my first win over him. But, yeah, it’s going to be tough.”

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