Ruud Dazzles, Mensik Endures as Team Europe Takes Command with 2-0 Lead at Laver Cup
Czech player battles through a second-set tie-break to clinch victory.
September 19, 2025
Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
Casper Ruud triumphs over Reilly Opelka on Friday at the Laver Cup held in San Francisco.
By ATP Staff
In a thrilling opening day, Casper Ruud and Jakub Mensik propelled Team Europe to a commanding 2-0 advantage at the Laver Cup with performances that showcased their unique styles.
Ruud set the momentum early with a robust 6-4, 7-6(4) victory against towering American Reilly Opelka, all while delivering remarkable serves. Meanwhile, Mensik had to navigate a tense match against Alex Michelsen, clinching it 6-1, 6-7(3), 10-8.
Casper Ruud, debuting a slightly smaller racquet head, was impeccable, clocking in at 88% of first serve points won (45/51) and successfully fending off both break points he faced, per Infosys ATP Stats. In contrast, Opelka managed to win just 16% of his return points against Ruud’s 28%.
“The key was to stay in my zone, make plenty of returns, and help Europe launch strong,” Ruud conveyed in his on-court interview. “I’m thrilled with how I played; last year I lost my opening match, so it feels great to get some revenge and set a positive tone for Europe.”
Mensik, on the other hand, faced a late challenge from Michelsen. After serving for the match at 6-1, 5-3, he faltered, needing to secure his win in a nail-biting Match Tie-break.
As both competitors elevated their play, Mensik surged to a quick 4/0 lead in the tie-break, dashing American hopes. Despite Michelsen’s spirited attempt to rally, coming within one point at 7/8, Mensik clinched victory with a powerful serve to Michelsen’s backhand, which sailed long.
“It was a fantastic match,” Mensik remarked. “We’ve followed each other since our junior days, which added to the intensity. This format with the Match Tie-break in the third set is always nerve-wracking, but I’m pleased I stayed composed and fought till the end. It feels great to contribute this point for my team.”
Tonight’s evening session will see Flavio Cobolli take on Joao Fonseca, followed by Carlos Alcaraz and Mensik pairing up against Taylor Fritz and Michelsen.
