Coach Patrick Mouratoglou praised Novak Djokovic’s “class and fair play” after the Serb fell just short of beating Holger Rune for his seventh Paris Masters title. Djokovic, 35, suffered a surprise defeat in his eighth Paris Masters final as Rune came from behind to beat the Serb 3-6 6-3 7-5.
Mouratoglou, who joined Rune’s team last month and will work with the Dane until the end of the 2022 season, guided the 19-year-old to his first Masters title. “Finally, Novak Djokovic, you are one of the best if not the best player in the history of the game, and today you have shown all your class and FairPlay.
I’m sure there will be many more battles to come in the future,” Mouratoglou wrote on Instagram.
Mouratoglou praised Djokovic’s ‘class’ after the Rune loss
Since Simona Halep was forced to end her season prematurely due to a nose surgery, Mouratoglou asked her for permission to work with Rune until the end of the 2022 season.
“Holger Rune, I am amazed by your determination, passion for the game and fighting spirit. These 4 weeks have shown all your qualities and potential to the world. I feel blessed to be part of your team. This Team that I want to thank for such an incredible vibe,” Mouratoglou told Rune.
After losing the final, Djokovic showed his classy side. “I’m not happy you beat me, but on the other hand I’m happy for you because I like your personality. I think you’re a very dedicated guy that loves tennis and puts a lot of hours into hard work so it’s paying off for you and I’m sure the future is bright for you and your team.
Congratulations,” Djokovic told Rune. Djokovic and Rune were playing for the second time against each other as the Serb beat the Dane when they clashed at the US Open last year.
