Holger Rune hopes to turn smashed rackets into charity gold

Denmark's Holger Rune has set up a new online store which he hopes will help charitable causes. PHOTO: REUTERS

UPDATED Jun 25, 2025, 04:28 PM

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COPENHAGEN – Holger Rune has put the mangled rackets that have borne the brunt of his frustration in matches over the years up for sale, among a collection of items in his new online store which he hopes will help charitable causes.

The world No. 8 from Denmark launched the website over the weekend, giving fans the chance to buy items such as books, posters and playing cards, as well as match-worn clothing.

While many of the items sold out in a flash, several used rackets were on sale for close to US$6,000 (S$7,700), while two that were bent and smashed beyond repair during the Dane's rare moments of rage on court were priced at more than US$7,000.

“I’ve been working behind the scenes with my sister Alma to create a space where you can get closer to my world,” Rune said on social media.

“To everyone who follows my journey, watches my matches, sends messages, and supports me – this is for you. Your support means everything.

“Launching this shop is my way of sharing a bit more of my journey with you.”

Part of the profits will support select charities close to Rune’s heart, the website added, and the 22-year-old said that he will put more items on sale soon.

Rune is next in action at Wimbledon, the third Grand Slam of the year which begins on June 30.

Meanwhile, Australia’s forgotten bad boy Bernard Tomic earned his first ATP main-draw victory since 2021 as he hit back from a set down to beat Rinky Hijikata at the Mallorca Open on June 24.

The 32-year-old, once ranked 17th in the world but now languishing down at 248, battled to a 3-6, 7-5, 6-2 to set up a clash against Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut – the result was unavailable at press time.

Tomic’s questionable attitude has attracted plenty of criticism throughout his career, often bragging about his party lifestyle and earnings and having numerous run-ins with authority over his penchant for speeding in sports cars.

But he appears to be giving tennis one last throw of the dice and skipped trying to qualify for Wimbledon in preference of trying to earn some ranking points by qualifying in Mallorca and boosting his hopes of a top-100 return. REUTERS, AFP

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