Europe leads Laver Cup after Alcaraz helps set early pace

Team Europe established a 3-1 lead over Team World on the opening day of the Laver Cup at the O2 Arena. Carlos Alcaraz helped set the tone by partnering Jakub Mensik to a 6-4, 6-4 doubles victory over Alexander Bublik and Taylor Fritz. It was only Alcaraz’s second competitive appearance since returning from a four-and-a-half-month absence caused by a right wrist injury.

Casper Ruud opened the event with a 6-7 (4), 6-4, 10-8 win over Francisco Cerundolo. Team World responded when Brandon Nakashima defeated Mensik 6-1, 3-6, 10-7. Europe’s other victory came from 19-year-old Spaniard Rafael Jodar, who beat Bublik 6-2, 6-3.

Jodar built a 6-2, 4-0 lead before completing a dominant performance that impressed players on both teams. Alcaraz was active from the sidelines during Ruud’s match, offering tactical advice and encouraging his teammate. He said his aim was to regain his form after returning from injury and to make the most of being physically and mentally fresh.

The Spaniard’s first tournament after the layoff was the US Open, where he lost a fifth-set tiebreak to Ben Shelton. He said the final part of the season had not traditionally been his strongest period but that he hoped to perform well in the remaining indoor tournaments. Jannik Sinner’s withdrawal from the Beijing Open, extending his injury absence to three months, was another development during the opening day.

The Laver Cup continues with Europe holding the early advantage.