Holger Rune has launched an online shop selling pieces of his old equipment and other merchandise to raise money for charitable causes.
Shop Holger Rune is a new initiative created by the world No.8 with the help of his sister. Posters, playing cards, old kits, and even smashed rackets are among the items listed. The item prices vary from a signed hat, selling for $190, to a signed cracked tennis racket, selling for more than $7,000. According to the website, part of the profits will be given to ‘charities close to Rune’s heart.’ However, it isn’t stated what this percentage is.
“I’ve been working behind the scenes with my sister Alma to create a space where you can get closer to my world,” Rune said on social media.
“To everyone who follows my journey, watches my matches, sends messages, and supports me, this is for you. Your support means everything. Launching this shop is my way of sharing a bit more of my journey with you.”
Rune currently serves as an ambassador for the children’s charity Børns Vilkår which has a 24/7 helpline to support those in need. He has also donated various pieces of clothing and equipment to tennis clubs in Africa since he was a junior.
Despite his good intentions, Rune has come under fire on social media for his decision to sell smashed rackets for a high price. On X (formerly Twitter) a user called Chungmuro Rose questioned the integrity of the tennis star.
“Went on Rune’s website. This guy is so detestable man, he has a page titled “Africa” and it’s 3 photos of his USED stuff shipped to an unnamed place in Africa with pictures of black children standing around it. He’s also selling smashed raquets for 6K on there,” Rose wrote.
Rune, who has won five ATP titles so far in his career, swiftly responded to the remarks.
“That’s right. I send most of my old tennis clothes to various clubs abroad that needs equipment instead of throwing it out and a couple of years ago I also started supporting charity organisations for kids financially and raising awareness of helping where we can. I am sure we can all do more, but this is what I do right now. And what do you do?” He replied.
When asked by another user if was defending his decision to sell smashed rackets for a large amount of money, the 22-year-old said he is ‘’just explaining it to those who don’t understand.’
Rune heads into Wimbledon having played one tournament on grass this season. At the HSBC Championships in London, he reached the quarter-finals before losing in three close sets to Roberto Bautista Agut. He is currently scheduled to be the 8th seed in this year’s draw which will be made on Friday morning.
