Laver Cup: Team Europe Leads 3-1 After Thrilling Day 1

San Francisco, CA, USA — Day 1 of the 2025 Laver Cup showcased dramatic tennis, as Team Europe took a 3-1 lead over Team World. The event, held at the Chase Center, featured strong performances from both teams on September 19. Team World managed to score their first point thanks to Joao Fonseca‘s impressive debut.

The 19-year-old Brazilian Fonseca fought back from a 2-4 deficit in the first set against Europe’s Flavio Cobolli and won 6-4, 6-3. “I tried to stay positive during the match,” Fonseca said after his victory. “I was a little bit more nervous than usual, which is normal.” His win energized the crowd and Team World, which was looking to come back after the initial matches saw Team Europe ahead.

Team Europe started strong with Casper Ruud defeating Reilly Opelka 6-4, 7-6(4) in the opening match. Ruud capitalized on Opelka’s difficulties returning serves, achieving a 6-4 win despite facing nine aces from his opponent. “It’s good to get some revenge and begin strong for Europe,” Ruud stated.

Next, Jakub Mensik played a thrilling match against Alex Michelsen. After dropping a set, Mensik rallied to win 6-1, 6-7(3), 10-8. His determination shone through, especially in the final tiebreaker. “I stayed focused until the end,” Mensik commented. His efforts pushed Europe’s score to 2-1 before the doubles match.

The evening concluded with Carlos Alcaraz and Mensik defeating Team World’s Taylor Fritz and Alex Michelsen 7-6(9), 6-4. Alcaraz, fresh off winning the US Open, showed remarkable composure under pressure, saving a set point in the tiebreak. “Doubles is not just about one player,” Alcaraz said, crediting Mensik for their victory.

Day 2 of the tournament promises more excitement with a series of singles and doubles matches, worth double points. Historically, Team World has not come back from a 3-1 deficit in the Laver Cup’s previous editions. The action continues on September 20 at 1 p.m. local time.