Atmane Shocks Rune, Sets Up Semi-Final Clash With Sinner in Cincinnati

CINCINNATI — French qualifier Terence Atmane continued his sensational run at the Cincinnati Masters 2025 with a dominant straight-sets victory over World No. 9 Holger Rune, booking his place in the ATP Masters 1000 semi-finals for the first time in his career.

Fresh from eliminating American star Taylor Fritz, the 23-year-old overpowered seventh seed Rune 6-2, 6-3 on Thursday evening. The win sets up a blockbuster semi-final clash with defending champion and World No. 1 Jannik Sinner.

Atmane’s Breakthrough Run in Cincinnati

Atmane entered the tournament with a modest 1–4 ATP Tour record in 2025, but his fearless hitting and aggressive play have made headlines all week. Against Rune, the Frenchman struck 14 forehand winners, chased down every ball with blistering speed, and closed the match in just 73 minutes.

“I don’t think any words can describe how I feel right now,” Atmane said. “Making the semi-finals, breaking into the Top 100, and earning this kind of prize money — it means a lot for my career.”

The win catapulted Atmane 67 places up the PIF ATP Live Rankings to a projected career-high of World No. 69, marking a major milestone in his breakthrough season.

Career-Defining Victory and Prize Money Boost

Before Cincinnati, Atmane had earned $310,376 in 2025. His quarter-final win alone brought in $332,160 — surpassing his entire season’s earnings in one match.

According to Infosys ATP Stats, Atmane won 85% of points on his first serve (28/33) and converted seven of 11 break opportunities, leaving Rune struggling to find answers.

Historical Milestone for French Tennis

With this victory, Atmane becomes the first Frenchman to reach the Cincinnati Masters semi-finals since Richard Gasquet in 2019. He is also the eighth lowest-ranked player in ATP Masters 1000 history to advance this far.

“I couldn’t sleep after beating Taylor,” Atmane revealed. “I just wanted to be myself, enjoy the moment, and embrace my role as the underdog. This week gives me huge confidence for the future.”

The stage is now set for Atmane to face Jannik Sinner in a semi-final that promises high-quality tennis and the chance for the French qualifier to write another remarkable chapter in his Cincinnati Open 2025 fairytale.