Holger Rune is set to kick off his Australian Open 2025 campaign against Zhizhen Zhang on Tuesday, January 14, at 11:30 AM on the Margaret Court Arena. This match holds significance for both players as they seek to regain their form after disappointing seasons.
Currently ranked 13th, Holger Rune had high expectations heading out of 2024, but his year ended on rocky ground. After reaching the semi-finals of prestigious tournaments like the Basel and Paris Bercy Masters, hopes were high for Rune. Unfortunately, his first match of 2025 at the Brisbane International saw him crash out against Jiri Lehecka. With just one match played this season, Rune is eager to start fresh and prove himself on the big stage once again.
Across the net, 49th-ranked Zhizhen Zhang is hoping to change his fortunes after five consecutive first-round exits. The Chinese player, who has struggled to find his footing since making the Hangzhou final, appears to be experiencing difficulties, as evidenced by his recent first-round loss to Denis Shapovalov at the Adelaide International. Zhang's last victory came almost two months ago, leaving him equally motivated to earn his first win of 2025.
While Rune begins his campaign with mixed results on paper, his previous experiences at the Australian Open have showcased his potential. Last year, Rune reached the second round, but his aspirations were cut short by Arthur Cazaux. With 4-3 as his Australian Open record, Rune aims to excel beyond his past experiences this year.
Zhang, on the other hand, has had limited success at the Australian Open, with his best result being the second round. His overall hard-court record is respectable, but recent performances have raised concerns about his ability to compete at higher levels. Given his struggles throughout the latter part of last season and underscored by his poor start this season, Zhang will need to tap deep to surprise Rune.
Both players have the tools to impact the match significantly, yet Rune's consistent track record—and slight form bias—give him the edge. "With both being far from their best these days, Rune's prior record does make him the favorite heading to this match," noted Tennis Analyst. The first meeting between these two players brings enthusiasm for what could be an important face-off, with Rune being the early favorite to come through.
Bookmakers and analysts also agree, pointing at Rune's history and playing capabilities, particularly on hard courts. "Rune is the favorite in this matchup, and we agree. Even though Holger is out of form, we still believe he is the more capable hard-court player than Zhang," shares Tennis Betting Expert.
The conditions at Margaret Court Arena are expected to suit Rune's aggressive style, which has proven effective against players with less experience at this level. Rune’s experience and higher seeding also mean he will face expectations to deliver as the match kicks off.
The match’s outcome will likely hinge on Rune’s ability to convert his game plan effectively under pressure and Zhang’s capacity to regain his focus and break his losing streak. "Zhizhen Zhang has lost four of his last five matches," as mentioned by ATP, emphasizes the need for the Chinese player to find his rhythm early if he wants any chance of success.
All things considered, tennis fans can expect this match to have implicit pressures for both players. Rune will chase redemption and confidence as he looks to build momentum, and Zhang will aim to defy the odds and manage to capture his first victory since last season's finale.
With the first point set to be played, all eyes will be on the Margaret Court Arena. The anticipation builds as we look forward to what promises to be an exciting start to the tournament for Holger Rune and Zhizhen Zhang.