"The courts are slower than a year ago, making them similar to those at the US Open," says Rune ahead of his debut in Cincinnati.

In an interview with Sky Sport, Holger Rune shared his first impressions ahead of his debut in Cincinnati. A semifinalist last year, the Dane has already begun training on the new facilities built for over $250 million.

"I feel good. My first two days in Cincinnati have been very positive, and it's great to see how they've expanded the site. Now, the place is really nice, and we tennis players are happy because we feel even more welcomed—in general, we enjoy being here. This tournament is very pleasant, and I’m happy to compete here," he said in an interview with Sky Sport during media day.

Regarding the court conditions, the 22-year-old player mentioned the surface speed, which he believes is slower than last year’s edition:

"Here, the ball still bounces a lot, but overall, the courts are slower than a year ago, making them similar to those at the US Open. But I think it’s good to play matches on a surface comparable to the one we’ll be competing on for the Grand Slam in two weeks.

I think it’s great. A year ago, the courts were very fast, whereas this year, it’s easier to adjust to the conditions," he said in an interview reported by Tennis World Italia.

Rune will begin his campaign this Saturday against Russia’s Safiullin (No. 80).