Team Europe Takes Lead on Day 1 of Laver Cup 2025 in San Francisco

The Laver Cup 2025 kicked off in San Francisco, United States, on September 19, 2025, with an exciting opening day that saw Team Europe establish an early lead. The day featured a series of thrilling matches, culminating in a 3-1 victory for Team Europe against Team World. Former Team World captain John McEnroe made a brief appearance for a coin toss, while tennis legend Roger Federer was also present, adding to the star-studded atmosphere.

Casper Ruud opened the competition for Team Europe with a solid performance against Team World’s Reilly Opelka. Ruud secured a 6-4, 7-6 (4) victory, marking his fifth consecutive win against Opelka and his second at the Laver Cup, having previously defeated him in 2021. This strong start set the tone for Team Europe as they aimed to defend their title.

In the second match, Jakub Mensik faced Alex Michelsen. Mensik dominated the first set, winning 6-1, but Michelsen rallied to take the second set in a tie-break. The match concluded with Mensik prevailing 6-1, 6-7 (3), 10-8, emphasizing the intensity of the competition.

While Team Europe initially seized momentum, it faced a challenge as 19-year-old Joao Fonseca of Team World made his Laver Cup debut. Under pressure after Team World lost the first two matches, Fonseca delivered a crucial performance, defeating Flavio Cobolli of Team Europe 6-4, 6-3. This victory not only marked a significant moment for Fonseca but also made him the youngest player in Laver Cup history to win a match. The atmosphere among Team World shifted dramatically with this win, bringing relief and excitement.

Despite the uplifting victory for Team World, their momentum faltered in the doubles match. Taylor Fritz and Michelsen had opportunities to claim the opening set against Carlos Alcaraz and Mensik. However, they could not capitalize on set points, and Alcaraz and Mensik ultimately won the match in straight sets, 7-6 (7), 6-4. This result maintained Team Europe’s advantage as the first day concluded.

The final score for Day 1 stood at Team Europe 3, Team World 1. Matches on this day were worth one point each, with two points available on Day 2 and three points on Day 3. Team Europe will look to build on their lead as the tournament progresses, while Team World seeks to bounce back in the upcoming matches.

As the competition unfolds, fans are eager to see if Team World can level the playing field in the next rounds. The stage is set for a thrilling continuation of the Laver Cup 2025, where every match counts and the stakes are high.