​Even if Simona Halep is temporarily suspended after testing positive for roxadustat, Patrick Muratoglu has reason to be happy on the ATP circuit. Holger Rune, a new pupil of the Frenchman, won the ATP 250 tournament in Stockholm, defeating Stephanos Tsitsipas in the final.

Holger Rune defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP Finals in Stockholm

Rooney, ranked 27th in the world, beat the top favorite 6-4, 6-4 in one hour and 34 minutes.

During the competition in Sweden, Holger (favourite 7) also defeated Thiago Monteiro (61 ATP), Christian Garin (89 ATP), Cameron Norrie (14 ATP / 2) and Alex De Minaur (23 ATP / 5).

Thanks to the triumph in Stockholm, Rooney (Roland Garros 2022 quarterfinalist) will climb three places in the ATP hierarchy, up to 24th place (the best ranking in his career).

This is the second title in the history of the 19-year-old Dane, who also won this year in Munich (he also reached the final in Sofia).

Patrick Muratoglu compares Runa Holger to Carlos Alcaraz

Patrick Muratoglu and Holger Roon began working together after Simona Halep underwent nose surgery (the former WTA leader was meanwhile suspended due to a positive result of a roxadustat test).

The Frenchman said he sees Carlos Alcaraz as the perfect role model for his new pupil, who certainly has a lot to learn from the ATP leader.

“I see it as a challenge for Holger. He may think: This guy will be my competitor in the future. This is positive in the sense that it is additional motivation.

I have this moment with Holger and we will see what comes out of this collaboration. I’m excited about what I’m doing, I give 100% with any player and we’ll see what happens in the future.” – Patrick Muratoglu.