On the first (qualifying) day of the European Open the public immediately got value for money.
Among the Belgians, Yannick Mertens (ATP-335, winner of pre-qualifications) was beaten by the first placed Marcel Granollers (ATP-94). Zizou Bergs (ATP-399) fought for what he was worth against Next Gen talent Felix Auger-Aliassime (ATP-128), but after three sets and in a tiebreak he was defeated: 7-5 3-6 7-6 (2). With his head held high and under the thunderous applause of his Fan Corner he left the battlefield. “This was a very interesting experience for me”, Bergs said. “I take the positive things with me into the future.”
Six Frenchmen also came into action today, but only two got the victory: Constant Lestienne (ATP-156) and Stéphane Robert (ATP-157).
Discover all the results of today here.
Fun at the clinics
Next to the qualifications, two clinics were organized today: at T.C. Gym in Schoten and at David Lloyd in Edegem. On the latter Ruben Bemelmans (ATP-108) and Feliciano Lopez (ATP-70) were present. They shared their experience and fooled with some children, after which they enjoyed handing out photos and signatures.
First round main draw
Tomorrow the second round of qualifications will be completed and the first round of the main draw will start. Lopez will compete against Frances Tiafoe (ATP-40) and Diego Schwartzman (ATP D-111) will play his first doubles match. Discover the complete order or play here.