The practice courts attracted particularly large crowds. Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev, Francisco Cerúndolo and Jurij Rodionov were among the Erste Bank Open stars preparing for their next challenges in front of the fans.
And there was more than just practice to watch: Afterwards, the players took the time to sign numerous autographs and pose for selfies. The short distances and close proximity to the professionals once again created the special atmosphere that defines the Marx Halle during tournament week.
There was also plenty happening away from the professional matches on Austria’s National Day. At the spark7 Next Gen Day powered by Stadt Wien, the youngest visitors played on the Mini Court and Padel Court, tested the speed of their serves, got creative at Art Shot and demonstrated their skills at numerous other activity stations.
The first points were also collected in the Padel Challenge powered by MINI, with the top four set to contest Friday’s grand final. The main prize: A MINI for one week and VIP tickets for the Erste Bank Open semi-final day on 31 October. Until and including Thursday, visitors can take on the challenge at the Padel Court every day between 4:00 and 5:00 pm and attempt to beat the high score.
While fans played, experimented and took photos throughout the venue, the matches on the #glaubandich Court offered tennis from close range. The enthusiasm continued until the final point of the day: The stands were still well filled for the concluding match between Italians Matteo Arnaldi and Luciano Darderi.
Darderi defeated his compatriot 7–5, 6–2 and celebrated a successful day. Just a few hours earlier, he had learned of his nomination for Italy’s Davis Cup team for the Final 8 in Bologna. “It is never easy against Matteo, but I am very pleased with my performance. My full focus is now on this tournament, but at the same time, I am obviously delighted to represent Italy in Bologna. My whole family will be there.”
Austria’s National Day provided an impressive demonstration of what the Marx Halle represents at the Erste Bank Open: big names, non-stop action and tennis stars up close.
More Stars Set to Practise at the Marx Halle on Tuesday
Fan favourite Frances Tiafoe, American Brandon Nakashima and Austria’s leading doubles team of Lucas Miedler and Neil Oberleitner are among the players scheduled to practise at the Marx Halle on Tuesday. It is the perfect opportunity to watch the professionals prepare from close range and, with a little luck, collect an autograph or selfie.
Practice times and players are subject to change at short notice.
