Laver Cup star apologises for ‘out of pocket’ comment after beating Alcaraz and Zverev

**Laver Cup Day One: Team World and Team Europe Level After a Thrilling Opening**

The first day of the Laver Cup in Berlin ended with Team World and Team Europe tied at 2-2, following an intense day of competition. One of the standout moments came from the doubles match, where Team World’s Ben Shelton and Taylor Fritz defeated world number two Carlos Alcaraz and world number three Alexander Zverev in straight sets. The American duo pulled off a surprising victory, winning the match 7-6, 6-4.

Despite a tough challenge from Alcaraz and Zverev, who pushed the first set to a tiebreak, Shelton and Fritz held their nerve. Once they secured the tiebreak, momentum shifted in their favor, and they powered through to clinch the second set and the match.

After the match, 21-year-old Shelton, who is the youngest player on Team World, expressed his gratitude for having Fritz by his side. Reflecting on the intense atmosphere in Berlin, he said:

“It was intense. Every time there’s a match at the Laver Cup, the energy is incredible with team-mates cheering on the sidelines and the full stadium. It’s a lot bigger than the crowds we usually see in doubles matches. But I’ve had some experience from last year’s Laver Cup, so I’m getting used to the pressure, especially in the big moments. Having Taylor, a veteran of the Laver Cup, with me is a huge help.”

Fritz, who at 26 is one of the more experienced members of Team World, responded jokingly to Shelton’s comment about being a veteran:

“Veteran? I don’t know about that—I’m not that old!”

Shelton quickly apologized, laughing, and said:

“Sorry, bro. That was out of pocket.”

The playful exchange between the teammates highlighted the camaraderie within Team World. Shelton, making his second Laver Cup appearance after debuting last year in Vancouver, has shown remarkable improvement and poise, especially in high-pressure situations like this.

Fritz, on the other hand, is no stranger to the Laver Cup, having first competed in the event in 2019. Coming into the tournament, he had been in strong form, reaching the US Open final where he was ultimately beaten by world number one Jannik Sinner.

For Team World captain John McEnroe, the experience and leadership of Fritz will be vital as his team faces off against Team Europe’s formidable lineup. Fritz’s contributions, both in singles and doubles, will be key to maintaining the balance of power as the tournament progresses.

As the dust settled on day one, the score was evenly poised at 2-2, with Team Europe dominating the singles matches. With everything still to play for, the Laver Cup promises to deliver more thrilling contests as both teams fight for supremacy in Berlin.