Holger Rune battles past Zhizhen Zhang in epic five-set thriller at Australian Open

Thirteenth-seeded Holger Rune (21) triumphed in a gripping five-set encounter during the first round of the Australian Open, overcoming Chinese player Zhizhen Zhang (28) with scores of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 at Melbourne Park on Tuesday.

The former world number four delivered an impressive performance, hitting a total of 62 winners throughout the three-hour and ten-minute match, ultimately breaking Zhang in the final game to secure his advancement to the next round.

“It was an incredibly tough match,” Rune remarked post-match. "It got very close at the end. I’m super happy I got through. First win of the season, it’s always a special feeling. Just super happy to be in the second round, hope I can keep it going."

Despite the intense battle for victory, Rune expressed satisfaction with the extended time spent on the court, having participated in only one competitive match prior to the Australian Open.

"I'm actually pleased that it was a lengthy match, filled with hard-hitting exchanges and baseline duels, which helped me find my rhythm. In a way, it's preferable to winning in just one hour and ten minutes in straight sets," he stated.

Rune initially lost the first set, appearing somewhat tense, and acknowledged the need to dispel his early nerves before regaining his usual fluidity.

"I was quite nervous; it was a bit hot, and the first round always feels a bit different."

"However, I managed to play for just over three hours. It felt good, and I was able to release the tension from my body," the Dane shared during the press conference following his victory.

Overall, he expressed satisfaction with his performance in the first-round match at the Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne.

"I believe I played good tennis. I served well and returned effectively. It's not a sprint; it's a marathon when competing in matches like this. Therefore, it is essential not to stress along the way," Holger Rune concluded.

Rune is set to face Italian Matteo Berrettini in the second round.

The match has not yet been scheduled, but is expected to be played on Thursday morning