SEPT 20 - 22, 2024 | BERLIN
The fans came out in force to meet the superstars of tennis as Team Europe and Team World were officially welcomed to Geneva ahead of Laver Cup 2019.
With captains John McEnroe (Team World) and Bjorn Borg (Team Europe) leading the way, and the great Rod Laver center stage, the two teams talked with fans and shared selfies before gathering on the balcony of the Palais Eynard.
Team Europe are looking to win the trophy for a third time after victories in Prague and Chicago, while Team World are determined to claim a first Laver Cup victory.
“We’re excited, getting settled in and getting pumped up – just making sure we bring it on Friday, Saturday, Sunday,” said McEnroe.
Laver Cup isn’t very old but I feel like it’s all happening, and I’m happy to see all the guys here in my home country – Roger Federer
Borg added: “I’m just happy that Laver Cup has started. We’ve got the team together and everybody is ready to play.’
Europe enjoy home advantage this year, with Swiss hero Roger Federer joined by Rafael Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Alexander Zverev, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Fabio Fognini.
“It’s definitely going to be one of those weeks that I’ll forever remember,” said Federer.
“I’ve played in some incredible matches, arenas, places, but I think this one’s going to go down as a very emotional, very cool weekend. I know we’ll give it all we have.”
John Isner, Milos Raonic, Nick Kyrgios, Denis Shapovalov, Jack Sock and Taylor Fritz will carry Team World hopes when the action gets under way at Palexpo on Friday.
Isner admitted that his side are up against possibly “the greatest tennis team of all time” but the American was backing the “powerful players” on Team World to provide a serious challenge.
And if Europe had the edge in terms of results over the first two Laver Cup instalments, World have led the way when it comes to celebrations.
“I like their craziness, it’s all good,” said Federer.
“I think they’re good guys and they’ve been great the last two Laver Cups, we’ve had a great rivalry.
“Laver Cup isn’t very old but I feel like it’s all happening, and I’m happy to see all the guys here in my home country.
“We have such a strong team again this year and I’m very, very happy and excited about the weekend.”
The schedule of play for the Laver Cup will be known on Thursday after captains reveal their team line-ups for Friday’s matches, with two singles in the Day session (starting at 1pm) and a singles followed by doubles match in the Night session (starting at 7pm).
