Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune, childhood friends and rising stars of tennis, are set to face each other in the men’s singles final at the 2025 Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell on Sunday, April 20. Both 21 years old, the Spanish and Danish players have a long history together, having grown up competing in junior tournaments and sharing many memorable moments on tour.
Alcaraz secured his place in the final with a commanding 6-2, 6-4 victory over France’s Arthur Fils on Saturday. The top seed extended his winning streak to nine matches and demonstrated tactical versatility despite windy conditions. Alcaraz saved the only break point he faced in the 76-minute match, showing strong baseline control and minimizing unforced errors.
On the other side, Rune confirmed his return to the ATP Top 10 rankings by defeating Olympic silver medallist Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-2. Rune’s powerful and consistent play earned him a spot in the final, where he will challenge Alcaraz for the title.
Reflecting on their upcoming showdown, Alcaraz said, “He is someone who I grew up with, playing under-12 and under-14 tournaments together. We crossed paths in every tournament we played since we were little, and it’s marvellous to see how we have both grown and made it together to where we are. Tomorrow there are no friends. We both have to go out there to win.”
This final marks the first ATP title match between the two, adding an exciting chapter to their shared journey. Alcaraz, a two-time Barcelona champion (2022 and 2023), is aiming for his third title here and his third ATP Tour title of the season, having also won in Monte Carlo recently. Rune, with four career titles, is eager to claim his second ATP 500 crown.
The Barcelona Open final promises a thrilling contest between two of the sport’s brightest young talents, both hungry to lift the trophy on the iconic clay courts of the Real Club de Tenis Barcelona.
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