VANCOUVER/STARNBERG, September 23, 2023

Team World had never gone into Day 1 of the Laver Cup with a lead in previous editions of the team event. However, John McEnroe‘s team changed that narrative significantly during this year’s edition in Vancouver. They stormed ahead with an impressive 4-0 lead over Team Europe in a dominant Friday evening session.

The momentum began building when Ben Shelton and Francisco Cerundolo secured an early 2-0 lead for Team World. Subsequently, Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has faced challenges in regaining his top form during much of 2023, earned a convincing 6-4, 6-3 victory over Gael Monfils in the third and final singles match of the day at Rogers Arena.

“It felt nice. Last year, it was an amazing win in London, but if we can win on home soil for the first time, that would also be cool. It was our first win last year for Team World,” said Auger Aliassime.

“To do it with the crowd, with us and supporting us, and for me especially as a Canadian, it feels good. Feels good to get a first win under my belt here in the competition, and overall in my season I think it’s nice to get some wins.”

The triumph continued as Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe held their ground, clinching a 6-3, 4-6, 10-6 victory in the first doubles match against Arthur Fils and Andrey Rublev during this three-day event.

Get ready for these matchups on Day 2 of Laver Cup Vancouver 2023.#shareubs pic.twitter.com/sxVokvSJTD

— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 23, 2023