Exciting Matchups Set for ATP Stockholm Open as Ymer Brothers Face Off

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — The ATP Stockholm Open kicks off with an intriguing family showdown as Elias Ymer and Mikael Ymer face each other in the first round on Tuesday.

This will be the third meeting between the brothers, who have not played against each other for a decade. Elias has won both prior encounters, including one by retirement.

While Elias, currently ranked No. 243, comes into the match on an eight-match losing streak, Mikael, ranked No. 617, hasn’t won a main-tour match since Wimbledon 2023. Both players received wild cards for this event.

“It’s unique and maybe not the best luck to face each other so early, but it’s also a great opportunity for one of them to reach the second round,” a source commented.

In another matchup, Nicolai Budkov Kjaer will take on veteran Marin Cilic. Budkov Kjaer, just 19 years old, has had a stellar season with four Challenger titles but lost recently against Gaston in quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Cilic, at 37, has struggled, holding a 1-7 record in his last eight matches.

Cilic played competitively against Novak Djokovic last week, but will need to elevate his performance to overcome the rising star. “Budkov Kjaer is in better form, but Cilic’s experience is crucial,” noted a tennis analyst ahead of the match.

With both matches featuring players at different stages of their careers, fans can expect thrilling tennis at the Stockholm Open.

The matches are set to unfold starting from 3:00 PM ET on Tuesday.