The highlight came late in the evening as newly crowned world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz partnered Jakub Mensik to sparkle in doubles action.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Alcaraz, who reclaimed the top ranking after winning his sixth Grand Slam title at the U.S. Open earlier this month, showed off his full repertoire at the net and from the baseline to help seal a 7-6(7), 6-4 win over Taylor Fritz and Alex Michelsen. The decisive moment came in the 10th game of the second set when Europe\u2019s young pairing secured a crucial break.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on the match, Alcaraz said doubles gave him the chance to expand his game. \u201cI think that it gives you more opportunities to make great shots, great volleys. But doubles is not just about one player. It was a team (effort) with a great player in Jakub. He has great skills in points throughout and made me comfortable on the court.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The victory capped a strong opening day for Team Europe, who are chasing a sixth title in the seven editions of the tournament, tennis\u2019 answer to golf\u2019s Ryder Cup. Under the Laver Cup format, wins on Day 1 are worth one point each, with the value of matches rising to two on Saturday and three on the decisive Sunday. The first team to 13 points out of 24 available is crowned champion.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The day had started brightly for Europe, with Casper Ruud striking the first blow through a 6-4, 7-6(4) win over Reilly Opelka. Mensik then doubled the holders\u2019 advantage, edging past Michelsen 6-1, 7-6(3), 10-8 in a spirited battle.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The victory capped a strong opening day for Team Europe, who are chasing a sixth title in the seven editions of the tournament, tennis\u2019 answer to golf\u2019s Ryder Cup. Under the Laver Cup format, wins on Day 1 are worth one point each, with the value of matches rising to two on Saturday and three on the decisive Sunday. The first team to 13 points out of 24 available is crowned champion.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Despite Fonseca\u2019s efforts, Europe\u2019s commanding 3-1 lead sets them up well heading into the high-stakes second day.<\/p>\r\n\r\n