‘Roger is my childhood hero’ – Holger Rune reveals emotions behind Roger Federer influence in his team

Holger Rune says it is like having a bit of Roger Federer in his team after the appointment of the Swiss maestro’s former coach Severin Luthi.

And the 20-year-old said in his on-court interview that Federer being his idol was a partial motivation in appointing Luthi, who was at the Swiss’ side from 2007 until his retirement.

“It’s amazing [to have Federer’s coach],” added Rune in the post-match chat.

“Roger is my childhood idol so it’s great to have a bit of him in my team. It’s cool and thanks to my team and all you guys for supporting me.”

The Danish No. 1 now has the former coaches of Novak Djokovic and Federer at his disposal as he looks to fulfil the potential that has seen him make the quarter-finals at the French Open and Wimbledon.

And the 20-year-old got past Nishioka in tough conditions on Tuesday, winning in four sets to progress, as he looks to better his fourth-round showing at Melbourne Park last year.

“It’s tough, but it’s always exciting to start the first round. The conditions were hot and dry so it was difficult,” Rune said after the match.

“The ball was fast but it was good to start with a match like this.

“I had to fight and I’m just happy to play some very good tennis at the end.”

Next up for Rune is Arthur Cazaux.