Halys’ path to the third round began with a stroke of fortune in his opening match. Facing 21st seed Tomas Machac, he led 7-6, 4-1 when the Czech player retired due to a thigh injury. This walkover propelled Halys into the second round, where he met Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic. In a thrilling four-set battle, Halys dropped the first set 4-6 but roared back with a 6-3, 7-6(2), 7-5 victory. His 22 aces and 85 winners highlighted his aggressive style, while his ability to win 55 first-serve points and 48 return points showed his all-around game. The French crowd’s energy undoubtedly boosted his performance, making this a defining moment in his career.
Facing Holger Rune: A Tough Challenge
Quentin Halys now faces a formidable opponent in Holger Rune, the 10th seed, in the third round. Their previous encounter at Wimbledon 2024 went to five sets, with Rune emerging victorious. However, this clash on the clay courts of Roland Garros presents a different dynamic. Rune, who has reached the French Open quarterfinals twice, started his 2025 campaign with a four-set win over Roberto Bautista Agut and a straight-sets victory against Emilio Nava. Analysts note that Halys’ big-hitting game could test Rune, especially with the home crowd’s support. Yet, Rune’s experience on clay and baseline speed make him the favorite to advance.
| Player | ATP Rank | French Open 2025 Performance | Head-to-Head |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quentin Halys | 52 | Third Round (Best Ever) | 0-1 vs. Rune |
| Holger Rune | 10 | Third Round | 1-0 vs. Halys |
A Season of Resilience for Halys
The 2025 season has been a testament to Quentin Halys’ resilience. After a challenging start to 2024, where he languished outside the top 200, he surged back with a final at the Gstaad clay event, losing to Matteo Berrettini. His performance at Wimbledon 2024, defeating Karen Khachanov to reach the third round, signaled his revival. Now, at Roland Garros, Halys is proving he belongs among the elite. His 82.9% service game win rate on clay this year reflects his strength, though his 17.5% return game win rate suggests room for improvement. With only 4-5 clay court wins this season, his current run is a significant leap forward.
What Makes Halys Stand Out?
Quentin Halys’ game thrives on his powerful serve and aggressive baseline play. His 22 aces against Kecmanovic and ability to keep points short align perfectly with his strategy on clay. The French crowd’s support adds an intangible edge, making him a dangerous player at Roland Garros. However, his consistency on clay has been questioned, with analysts noting that maintaining focus against a tactician like Rune will be critical. Halys’ mental toughness, evident in his comeback against Kecmanovic, could make this match closer than expected. His journey from a career-low ranking to this stage highlights his determination and growth.
Can Halys Pull Off the Upset?
As Halys steps onto Court Philippe-Chatrier on May 30, 2025, the spotlight is on him. Facing Rune, a player with a proven track record at Roland Garros, is no small task. Yet, Halys’ recent form and the electric atmosphere of a home Grand Slam could push him to new heights. If he serves at a high percentage and leverages his baseline power, he might extend the match to four or five sets. While Rune’s experience gives him an edge, Halys’ underdog spirit and crowd support make this a must-watch clash. Tennis fans are eager to see if he can continue his Cinderella story.
Keep an eye on Quentin Halys as he battles Holger Rune today! Follow the French Open action live on TV or streaming platforms to witness whether Halys can pull off a stunning upset. Share your predictions and join the conversation with fellow tennis fans!