Stockholm is set for an action-packed Saturday at the BNP Paribas Nordic Open with former champions Holger Rune and Denis Shapovalov back on court at the Royal Tennis Hall. The Royal Tennis Hall will come alive as Holger Rune clashes with Ugo Humbert in the opening singles semifinal at the BNP Paribas Nordic Open. Rune, the tournament’s top seed and 2022 champion, leads their head-to-head 5–0 and will aim to reach his 12th ATP Tour final. The Dane has been in strong form this week, showcasing the explosive shot-making and court coverage that earned him his title two years ago. Humbert, making his first Stockholm semifinal, has enjoyed a strong indoor season highlighted by his 2025 Marseille title. The match promises a fast-paced battle, with Rune’s aggressive baseline play tested against Humbert’s left-handed rhythm and tactical precision. In the evening session, the second semifinal will see Casper Ruud take on Denis Shapovalov in a rematch of two of the tournament’s top seeds. The two players met in Dallas earlier this year, with Shapovalov taking the win in two sets. The Norwegian world No. 12, reached the semifinals after a solid three-set win over Sebastian Korda, and is now seeking his first Stockholm final. Shapovalov secured his place in the semifinals by defeating Swedish home favourite Elias Ymer in a dramatic three-set match. The Canadian has claimed two titles this season, in Dallas and Los Cabos, and will bring his trademark aggressive style and left-handed power into the semifinal. Fans can expect a highly competitive matchup with long rallies and dynamic shot-making on display. The day opened with the first doubles semifinals with the top-seeded pair Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori, facing Alexander Erler and Robert Galloway. The Austrian and the American defeated the Italians in a nailbiting upset, sealing their spot in the Sunday's final: 7-6, 7-6. The final match on centre court will feature Vasil Kirkov and Bart Stevens against Adam Pavlasek and Jan Zielinski to decide who will compete for the doubles trophy.
Champions are back in action for Saturday's semifinals
Photo: Peter Hansson

© Peter Hansson