Another exciting day of tennis is underway, and the courts are buzzing with big wins, local talent, and can’t-miss matchups.
Local Austinite and qualifier Marko Mesarovic, who represents Puerto Rico and currently plays for Clemson, will take on No. 2 seed Gabi Adrian Boitan of Romania. Mesarovic worked his way through qualifying, earning his spot in the main draw with grit and strong all-court play. He’ll look to bring that fire into a tough matchup against the highly ranked Boitan.
Top seed Garrett Johns takes the court today against qualifier Stefan Menichella. A 2024 Duke graduate, Johns is aiming for his ninth career title. He has now spent a full year on the pro tour and enters this event riding the momentum of his highest ranking yet.
Brothers Mike and Jay Blando opened their tournament with an impressive win over Evan Burnett and Lucas Marionneau. Traveling all the way from San Diego, the Blando brothers brought strong energy to their first match and set a positive tone for the rest of their run.
One doubles team creating buzz today is Pierce Brandan and Pablo Schelcher Muro. Pablo, who recently graduated from Georgia, is now part of the team at the Courtyard Racquet Club in Austin. The club offers a full range of lessons and training programs—hit them up if you need a lesson or want to improve your tennis.
Brandan and Schelcher Muro will be facing an international pairing: Shunsuke Mitsui of Japan and James Hopper of Great Britain. The contrast in their styles and backgrounds makes this matchup one to watch, with high-level and exciting doubles on display.