Europe claims 3-1 lead after opening day at Laver Cup
Team Europe leads defending champions Team World 3-1 after day one, with Alcaraz and Mensik winning doubles.
Team Europe opened the Laver Cup with a convincing first day, taking a 3-1 lead over defending champions Team World. World No. 3 Alcaraz and Czech partner Jakub Mensik sealed the advantage with a straight-sets doubles win over Alexander Bublik and Taylor Fritz, winning 6-4 6-4.
Alcaraz was competing in only his second tournament since returning from a four-month injury layoff after the US Open. Casper Ruud started Europe's charge with a win over Francisco Cerundolo before Brandon Nakashima levelled for Team World.
Rafael Jodar then restored Europe's lead with a commanding 6-2 6-3 victory over Bublik. Watched from the stands by tennis legends Roger Federer and John McEnroe, Jodar said he was thrilled by their presence at his Laver Cup debut.
The three-day team competition awards points worth one on Friday, two on Saturday and three on Sunday.
- 3-1
- Europe lead
- World No. 3
- Alcaraz ranking
- Four months
- Injury layoff
- 1 point
- Friday points per win
Why it mattersThe tournament pits the world's best six Europeans against six from the rest of the world, with Australia's Alex de Minaur playing for Team World.
AustraliaAlex de Minaur is competing for Team World after recently leading Australia at the Davis Cup.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 48 min ago
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