Even before the first singles match began on Wednesday, numerous fans had gathered at the Marx Halle to watch Alexander Zverev practise. Spectators lined the practice court for the opportunity to see the future world No. 1 from close range.
Autograph session with Austria’s successful doubles team
Neil Oberleitner and Lucas Miedler, who have been competing together in doubles since September, took time out for an autograph session. Following their Masters title in Shanghai and their run to the final in Almaty last week, the two doubles specialists are enjoying considerable popularity. Fans of all ages queued to collect autographs or take a photo with the Austrian duo. Oberleitner and Miedler will make their first appearance at the 2026 Erste Bank Open on Thursday.
Packed stands and a fantastic atmosphere on the #glaubandich court
There was also plenty for fans to enjoy on court. The opening singles match of the day featured Tallon Griekspoor (NED) and Brandon Nakashima (USA). After Griekspoor took the opening set convincingly 6:1, the contest developed into a thrilling battle that was not decided until the tie-break of the final set.
The tension spread to the crowd, with the stands almost completely full and the fans providing vocal support. After the match, Griekspoor spoke enthusiastically about the atmosphere at the Marx Halle: “I love it here, to be honest. I played here at the Marx Halle last year and had a great experience. The conditions for the players are excellent and the crowd is always fantastic. I really enjoy playing on this court and I am very happy to be here.”
Shortly before the second match, the remaining seats on the #glaubandich Court filled up as fan favourite Alexander Zverev entered the court alongside his Brazilian doubles partner Marcelo Melo. The stands on the neighbouring Fairplay Court were also very well attended. There, fans had the opportunity to watch Argentine duo Francisco Cerúndolo and Tomas Martin Etcheverry, as well as the world’s No. 1 doubles pairing Harri Heliövaara and Henry Patten, in action on Wednesday.
More than just tennis
Away from the matches, the Marx Halle also offers a varied programme of activities. A padel court and table tennis tables provide additional entertainment. Fans who want to pick up a racket themselves can try their skills on a mini tennis court or measure the speed of their serve.
The enthusiasm of the visitors shows just how popular the experience is. One fan summed up the day: “You can get so close to the players here, and the admission prices are very affordable by comparison. With matches and practice sessions taking place on several courts at the same time, tennis fans really get their money’s worth.”
Once again, the Marx Halle demonstrated that the Erste Bank Open generates excitement far beyond the Wiener Stadthalle. The close proximity to the players and the varied supporting programme make the tournament’s second venue a special experience for tennis fans of all ages.
