The Ultimate Tennis Showdown got off to a great start on the first day, but on Day 2, Holger Rune and Dominic Thiem both withdrew from the tournament.
The Ultimate Tennis Showdown is a series of exhibition events that feature a unique format and generally really strong fields. It first started with an event at the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy and then expanded to many different places around the world.
One of those is Oslo, which is hosting this latest edition with a really packed field. The field included Holger Rune and Dominic Thiem, but both withdrew from the event after the first day.
Both withdrew due to illness, which is not ideal for either player as it can impact their schedule. Both released statements about their withdrawals, with Thiem naming food poisoning as his reason for withdrawing.
“Unfortunately I am suffering from food poisoning today and despite all my efforts, I am just unable to step on court. I loved the atmosphere here in Oslo and the excitement of UTS. I am really sorry for the fans and look forward to seeing you soon on the UTS Tour.”
Rune didn’t name anything specific as the reason for his withdrawal but simply explained that he hadn’t been feeling very well in the last few days. It comes after he struggled with injury in Montpellier last week, most likely trying to preserve his body for the following events.
“Hi guys. I am really sorry I cannot continue my matches in Oslo. I have not been feeling well the last days and I will be unable to perform at a satisfying level tonight. I really enjoyed being here and I gave it my best yesterday. It’s something very special to play for the Nordic people. I love the energy you bring.”