Holger Rune, the Danish tennis athlete, suffered a severe Achilles tendon injury in Stockholm 2025.
What happened?
The injury occurred during a semifinal match, when Rune's Achilles tendon gave out while dashing for a forehand.
He became the latest athlete to suffer from this type of injury, which has plagued sports recently.
Why it matters for Holger Rune
Rune has been ranked as high as No. 4, but his career will now be divided into chapters - everything before the injury and everything after.
The 22-year-old has not disappeared from the sport, despite being exiled for months, and has been posting updates on his recovery.
What comes next?
Between rehab sessions in Doha, Qatar, Rune sat for an interview with Sports Illustrated, discussing his goals and progress.
He stated that his team is closely involved in his rehabilitation, and that he is already walking without his boot, just seven weeks after surgery.
Rune aims to return to tennis as a "beast," more mature, more aware, and more rested, with a focus on loading the tendon almost every day in different ways.
He also expressed his gratitude for the support of his family and team, which has been essential in helping him cope with the injury.
On December 18, Rune will be walking in normal shoes with a little heel raised, a significant milestone in his recovery.
The Danish athlete is determined to come back stronger, with a newfound appreciation for the sport and a fresh perspective on his career.
With his rehabilitation progressing well, Holger Rune is poised to make a comeback, and his fans are eagerly awaiting his return to the tennis court.