Defending champions Team Europe made a powerful start at the Laver Cup in San Francisco on Friday, securing three victories out of four matches to build a significant early advantage over Team World. World number one Carlos Alcaraz, fresh off his U.S. Open triumph, shone particularly brightly as he teamed up with Czech player Jakub Mensik to claim a decisive doubles win. The pair defeated Taylor Fritz and Alex Michelsen 7-6(7), 6-4 in the final match of the day, displaying exceptional coordination and skill at the net and baseline. Alcaraz praised his partner’s performance, emphasizing that doubles success relies on teamwork and mutual support.
The day began strongly for Team Europe as Norwegian Casper Ruud delivered the first point with a solid 6-4, 7-6(4) victory over Reilly Opelka. Mensik followed with an impressive singles win against Alex Michelsen, battling to a 6-1, 7-6(3), 10-8 triumph that further extended Europe’s lead. The three-day tournament, often compared to golf’s Ryder Cup for its team-based format, assigns one point for each match win on the opening day, with values increasing to two points on Saturday and three on Sunday. The first team to reach 13 points claims the championship.
Team World avoided a clean sweep thanks to a spirited performance from Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca, who fought back from a break down to defeat Flavio Cobolli 6-4, 6-3. Fonseca attributed his success to maintaining an aggressive and positive mindset throughout the match. Despite this lone victory for Team World, Team Europe ended the day firmly in control as they pursue their sixth Laver Cup title. The competition continues through the weekend, with higher-stakes matches offering more points and intensifying the battle for the trophy.
