Umag is gearing up for the tennis spectacle of the year!
In the small but proud town of Umag, the tennis world is preparing for the 35th edition of the ATP Plava Laguna Croatia Open, and the main star of this year’s tournament is none other than Greek tennis player Stefanos Tsitsipas, currently ranked 26th in the ATP rankings. Yes, you read that right – Tsitsipas, one of the most attractive players of today, is coming to Umag for the first time in his career!
Why is this important?
Tsitsipas started a collaboration just a month ago with the legendary Goran Ivanišević, whose name adorns the central stadium at the Stella Maris tennis center. The tournament director, Tomislav Poljak, emphasized that it was Goran who helped in the negotiations to bring Tsitsipas to Umag. This is a huge success for a small tournament that has hosted almost all the best tennis players in the world over the last 35 years.
Who else is coming?
The defending champion, Argentine tennis player Francisco Cerundolo, who last year won a spectacular final against Lorenzo Musetti, is returning to try to defend his trophy. Cerundolo is currently 19th in the ATP rankings and is considered the top favorite for the tournament, which is no small feat considering that before him, only legends like Thomas Muster and Carlos Moya have won the title in Umag.
Other strong players include Tallon Griekspoor from the Netherlands, who recently won his third ATP title on grass, Polish Hubert Hurkacz, Italian Luciano Darderi, and the best Bosnian-Herzegovinian player Damir Džumhur, known for his entertaining play on the court.
Old masters and young talents
We must not forget the legendary Stan Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam winner, who will play in Umag with a special invitation. His arrival is a real treat for tennis fans as he won his first ATP title in Umag 17 years ago.
Unfortunately, Croatian players did not qualify directly, but young Dino Prižmić, one of the biggest talents in Croatian tennis, will receive a wildcard and have the chance to showcase his skills on home soil.
Technological and infrastructural innovations
Organizers have worked hard to improve conditions for players and spectators. The court surface has been renewed, new floodlights installed, an electronic line-calling system replacing line judges has been introduced, and 12 cameras will enrich TV broadcasts. All this shows how much is invested in this tournament.
More than just sport
The Umag tournament is not just a sporting event but also a big party. Mayor Vili Bassanese emphasizes that this is a prestigious event that has become a trademark of Umag, Istria, and Croatia, while the Croatian Tourist Board highlights that the tournament is an important part of the country’s tourist offer.
Conclusion
If you thought Umag was just a small coastal town, think again! This year, from July 19 to 26, Umag will be the center of the tennis world. With stars like Tsitsipas, Cerundolo, Hurkacz, and Wawrinka, we are in for a spectacle not to be missed. And if you are a tennis fan or just love a good party, maybe it’s time to pack your bags and head to Istria.
And hey, if you think this is just another tournament, think about how much effort and passion has gone into organizing such an event in a small town. So, who’s up for some tennis banter and jokes? Who’s your favorite? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s the king or queen of the chat!
