Laver Cup lineup announced: Alcaraz and Zverev lead Team Europe, while the American squad dominates Team World!

With the US Open just around the corner, the ATP Laver Cup’s star-studded lineup has been confirmed. Let’s take a look at which big names this tournament has managed to attract this year.

Team World: Agassi (captain), Fritz, Shelton, Paul, Tiafoe, F. Cerundolo, Fonseca

Team Europe: Noah (captain), Alcaraz, Zverev, Rune, Ruud, Mensik, Cobolli

After several years without changes, the team captains have been switched, with American Agassi and Frenchman Noah now at the helm. Noah is perhaps best known to many because of his son, Joakim Noah, the former NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

Team World is heavily represented by Americans, who play a leading role. Both top-ten players Shelton and Fritz have been selected. Fritz, the top American, has shown consistent strength and form in recent years, holding onto his top spot despite fierce competition.

Shelton, on the other hand, is on a rapid rise and also serves as an On Running ambassador, making his selection unsurprising. Paul and Tiafoe join them—Paul is known for his looks, which are popular in exhibition events like this; Tiafoe brings charisma and entertainment value, famously facing Federer in his farewell match, though his playful style hasn’t always been universally embraced by fans.

The final two members represent the current talent and fame of South America. Cerundolo reached the semifinals of a Masters event this year for the first time in three years, often proving a tough opponent for top players like Zverev.

Fonseca has yet to make his mark in major tournaments, but after claiming his first tour title earlier this year, his popularity has soared. Despite not being highly ranked, he frequently finds himself playing on center court, which speaks volumes about his growing appeal.

On Team Europe, although world No.1 Sinner has withdrawn again, world No.2 Alcaraz will make his debut, which guarantees high entertainment value. His dynamic playing style should thrive in an exhibition format like this.

Zverev and Ruud are familiar faces, consistently reliable and versatile, able to contribute effectively in both singles and doubles matches.

Such a major event wouldn’t be complete without Rune. Once considered on par with Alcaraz and Sinner, Rune made the elite six at last year’s Saudi Grand Slam.

Newly rising stars Mensik and Cobolli have both claimed their first tour titles this season. Cobolli, also an On Running ambassador, combines good looks with talent, and his presence is expected to boost ticket sales significantly.

Reportedly, this year’s competition will be held from September 19 to 21 at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Due to scheduling conflicts with the Chengdu and Zhuhai tournaments in China, players like Draper and Medvedev will not be participating.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Luo Cheng Qiye)