Holger Rune: John McEnroe warns youngsters after misconduct and skirmishes with fans in Madrid

For the seven-time Grand Slam champion McEnroe, Holger Rune is in the process of “earning a certain reputation”. That’s what the American said on his brother Patrick McEnroe’s “Holding Court” podcast.

The young Dane clashed with the Spanish audience in the round of 36 in Madrid. The trigger was an automatic line decision that Rune’s opponent Davidovich Fokina complained to referee Carlos Bernardes.

Angered by the complaint, Rune ran to the Spaniard’s side and smeared the controversial ball mark in the sand.

This was followed by boos and recurring disturbances from individual spectators when the Dane served.

McEnroe: ‘It’s hard to be a total jerk’

But the Dane didn’t let that sit down either: “I didn’t do anything. Did I even complain to you once?”

For John McEnroe, the number seven in the world should reconsider his behavior: “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: It’s hard to be a total ass when you play on the tennis tour. It is possible, but you end up leading a very lonely existence.”

McEnroe himself used to be known and notorious for his choleric outbursts.

The tennis legend didn’t want to doubt the 20-year-old’s talent either: “I think Rune will come around again. I think he can go very far at the French Open this year. The boy is a great talent and puts a lot of energy on the pitch.”

Rune wants to “take a nap” next time

He also added: “They haven’t bothered to tell the viewers. Next time I’ll take a nap while they discuss. I just want to say that personally I have nothing against the Spaniards and I’m looking forward to it to come back to Madrid.”

It remains to be seen how Holger Rune will then be received by the Spanish fans.