Day One action of the inaugural Laver Cup started with a spectacular opening ceremony befitting the newest event on the global tennis stage, followed by the first match between Team World’s Frances Tiafoe and Team Europe’s Marin Cilic.
Fans were treated to a digital display and light show featuring the career of dual Grand Slam champion Rod Laver, for whom the competition is named after. With the O2 Arena flooded by pools of red and blue lights, team captains John McEnroe (World) and Bjorn Borg (Europe), stepped onto the black center court, followed by team members.
Marin Cilic celebrates victory over Frances Tiafoe. Getty Images/Clive Brunskill.
Frances Tiafoe opens day one action for Team World.
Marin Cilic won the first match for Team Europe 7-6 7-6.
A first: the Laver Cup is playing on a black court.
The opening ceremony at the O2 Arena. Credit: Ben Solomon.
Rod Laver views the Laver Cup Trophy during the opening ceremony.
Team captains Bjorn Borg (Europe) and John McEnroe (World)
Team World teammates gather for the team photo.
Team Europe players gather for team photograph ahead of Day One action.
Backstage boys: Rafael Nadal waits in the wings before making an entrance.
Rod Laver watches proceedings before making his entrance at the opening ceremony.
Team World’s Nick Kyrgios supports Frances Tiafoe.
Marin Cilic scores the first point for Team Europe.
Tomas Enqvist, Roger Federer, Fernando Verdasco, Alexander Zverev and Dominic Thiem of Team Europe lend their support to Marin Cilic. Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images for Laver Cup
