UMAG, July 18, 2019 (Press Release)
The two tennis legends, Goran Ivanišević and Patrick Rafter, played a friendly match at the 30th edition of the Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag as a tribute to the historical Wimbledon final from 2001. Once again, playing on the packed Stella Maris court, Ivanišević defeated Rafter 6:4, 6:4.
It was a unique experience for all the visitors to the tournament in Umag. “It’s been eighteen years, and my Wimbledon victory is now of age and can do whatever she wants. I would like to thank Rafter for finding the time to come to Umag all the way from Australia after so many years of me trying to talk him into it, and for playing against me once again. This is the cherry on top of my exhibition matches. After Rafter, there is no longer a player that I would be more honored to play a match against,” Goran said.
In memory of the exhibition match, the two Grand Slam champions were presented with trophies and gifts by the Director of the Plava Laguna Croatia Open Lawrence Frankopan, Director of the Corporate Communications at Podravka Marinka Akrap, and Member of the Management Board at Triglav Tadej Čoroli.
The two-time US Open champion, Patrick Rafter, was especially cheered on by several Australian fans in the stands, even though this volley master had already won over the many spectators who were there yesterday. Among other things, he said he would be staying in Croatia for a while after Umag. “I would like to see Korčula and Dubrovnik. I also love Game of Thrones, so I plan on visiting some of the filming locations. I am looking forward to it,” Rafter added.
Apart from top-quality tennis, the visitors to the 30th edition of the Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag will be able to enjoy a fantastic party program and a diverse culinary offer. Last night, Umag’s Dance Arena welcomed world-famous DJ duo W&W. This Dutch pairing of Willem van Hanegem and Ward van der Harst have been dominating the progressive house scene for years now, and this was their first ever concert in Umag. Today, the stage will be occupied by the Swedish DJ Salvatore Ganacci, who will certainly prepare a world-class performance.
