The tone for the Laver Cup is set after the first day of the clash between the two giants, that is, Team Europe and Team World. The first match was spiced up as Casper Ruud from Team Europe locked horns with Reilly Opelka. Although both are quite seasoned players, Ruud here took some long shots and had taken control of the game early, putting pressure on Opelka. The first set showed the way forward for the match. Reilly did take some open shots but was not able to hold the momentum. The forehand shots by Reilly did put some pressure, but Ruud had the final laugh with his calm and composure. Team World now has an added advantage with this early win. Ruud became the magic card that did its part with this performance.

 

 

Well, this was not the only thing worth noticing. Daniel Mensik, a youngster, had his debut match yesterday against Benjamin Michelsen. The young guy was initially under pressure from the first set, but the match was no less than a drama. The first set ended with Daniel losing it against the mighty Benjamin. But from the second set onwards, it was all a Mensik show. He showed his real colour from the second set, and that was enough as he sealed the match with another victory for Team Europe. Team World was under pressure after two back-to-back losses. Day 1 ended with a doubles clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Jakub Mensik against Taylor Fritz and Alex Michelsen through a scoreline of 7-6(9-7), 6-4. Day 1 was good for Team Europe as they clinched victories in both doubles and singles.

 

The third round was a comeback for Team World, with Thiago Fonseca standing up against Lorenzo Cobolli. This match was, however, one-sided as Thiago was dominant from the very first set onwards, and finally the match ended with Team Europe having a lead of 2-1  in the singles. Day 1 was quite entertaining and dramatic, and fans would now be looking forward to day 2 as there will be more expectations from both ends for the matches tomorrow.