The Laver Cup’s opening day in Berlin concluded with a thrilling 2-2 tie between Team World and Team Europe.
In the evening session, Grigor Dimitrov of Team Europe overcame Alejandro Tabilo of Team World in a hard-fought 7-6 (4), 7-6 (2) battle. Dimitrov’s victory gave Team Europe an early lead.
However, Team World responded with a stunning performance in the final match of the day. Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton teamed up to defeat Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev 7-6 (5), 6-4.
Fritz and Shelton’s victory was particularly impressive considering the caliber of their opponents. Alcaraz, the reigning US Open champion, was making his Laver Cup debut alongside Zverev, the German No. 1.
The match was closely contested throughout, with both teams trading breaks in the first set. However, Fritz and Shelton managed to secure the tie-break and take the early advantage.
In the second set, Fritz and Shelton continued to play aggressively, forcing Alcaraz and Zverev into errors. The American duo eventually broke serve in the fourth game and held on to their lead to secure the victory.
“We both served really well under pressure,” said Fritz after the match. “Ben served incredibly well. I didn’t have to hit any volleys, so that was huge.”
Shelton added, “It makes life pretty easy when you’re playing with a guy who’s moving like Taylor is right now. Pretty light on his feet.”
With the tie at 2-2, the Laver Cup remains wide open heading into Day 2. Team Europe will be looking to regain the lead, while Team World will be aiming to secure their first victory in the competition.
