Team Europe celebrates their Laver Cup victory! © Twitter (@FirstServeTnnis)
Team Europe pulled off a remarkable comeback to win the Laver Cup 2024, edging out Team World 13-11 in Berlin. Carlos Alcaraz’s straight-set victory over Taylor Fritz was the deciding factor after Europe clawed back on the final day. Trailing 11-7 heading into the day, the pressure was on Team Europe to deliver, and they did so in spectacular fashion, securing their fifth Laver Cup title in seven editions.
Team World had the upper hand for much of the tournament, starting strong with Argentina’s Francisco Ceralundo defeating Norway’s Casper Ruud in the opening match. However, Stefanos Tsitsipas quickly leveled the European score by overcoming Australia’s Thanasi Kokkinakis. By the end of day one, both teams were locked at 2-2 after Fritz and Ben Shelton’s doubles victory over Alcaraz and Zverev for Team World.
Day two saw Team World extend their lead by claiming six of the eight points available, taking the score to 8-4. Alcaraz was the lone bright spot for Europe, as Frances Tiafoe and Taylor Fritz delivered singles wins for Team World, while Shelton and Alejandro Tabilo dominated in doubles. With a comfortable lead, Team World seemed poised to repeat their success from last year when they secured a commanding 13-2 victory.
On the final day, they brought renewed hope for Europe, starting with Casper Ruud and Carlos Alcaraz teaming up in the doubles to close the gap. Their win brought Europe within striking distance at 11-7, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. Zverev, who had struggled throughout the tournament, found his form just in time, defeating Tiafoe in a three-set thriller to reduce the deficit to 11-10, keeping Europe’s hopes alive.
With the momentum swinging in Europe’s favor, the pressure mounted on Carlos Alcaraz as he stepped onto the court to face Taylor Fritz in the deciding match. The world number three didn’t disappoint, securing a 6-2, 7-5 victory and completing Europe’s remarkable comeback. His debut performance in the Laver Cup proved vital, showcasing his nerves of steel in high-pressure moments and leading his team to glory.
Team Europe’s victory adds another chapter to the Laver Cup’s history, with Europe now winning five out of the seven editions since the tournament’s inception in 2017. While Team World showed incredible strength and teamwork throughout, they were ultimately undone by Europe’s resilience and determination. The thrilling final day capped off one of the most exciting Laver Cup competitions.
