Today the draw ceremony took place for the 4th edition of the European Open. Not only will we serve some big first round’ matches, for the Belgian fans it will also be the very last opportunity to see Steve Darcis playing in his home country. At the occasion of today’s tournament press conference in the Lotto Arena, ‘Mister Davis Cup’ announced his retirement.
In front of tournament director Dick Norman and Darcis the draw of the fourth edition took place. The strong players field in mind, people were looking forward to some big first round’ matches. And there will be. On Tuesday evening, the match between Andy Murray and Belgian wildcard Kimmer Coppejans, will drive the public animo for sure.
Norman is very pleased with the draw: “I am looking forward to a fantastic week with top matches from the beginning till the end. We’ll definitely be able to offer the Belgian public a unique tournament”, he proudly stated.
Darcis announces end of top career
Immediately after the draw and in front of a lot of journalists, Darcis announced his retirement from tennis. “I made a successful comeback in 2019, but after Wimbledon, I got problems again with my shoulder. Mentally and physically I’m no longer at my best. Plenty of strong career moments will stay with me forever and I hope to end the year in a nice way. This goes also for my last tournament here in Antwerp”, he said. Next week, Steve will play his last match on Belgian soil at the European Open. It will be a unique not to miss moment for every single Belgian tennis fan.
Darcis, 35 years old, suffered from a lot of injuries during his career. 2017 was Steve’s personal career high with an ATP ranking of 38. He also won two ATP-titles, in Amersfoort (2007) and Memphis (2008)). During his career the Belgian was one of the strongholders of the Belgian Davis Cup team. Therefore he got the nickname ‘Mister Davis Cup’.
In 2016 and 2017 Darcis reached the second round in The European Open of Antwerp.
Goffin Challenge with the stars
Earlier today, in one of the most famous shopping streets of Antwerp, the Meir, a fun European Open activity took place. Bystanders were surprised by star players Guido Pella, Frances Tiafoe, Belgian top doubles duo Sander Gillé, Joran Vliegen and Belgian Davis Cup captain Johan Van Herck. Together with them they had the opportunity to participate in the Goffin Challenge. Footage of the activity is attached to this press release.
Book now in the agenda
We kindly remind you public crowd puller Murray will play his first game on Tuesday evening, inviting the public to an atmospheric British night. The Belgian number 1, David Goffin, plays his first round on Thursday evening 17 October. Book the best remaining seats now here.