Belgrade hosted a stellar week of tennis from November 3-9, 2024, as it welcomed the ATP 250 Belgrade Open. Held indoors at the Belgrade Arena, this year’s tournament brought an exciting finale, with Canada’s Denis Shapovalov clinching his second ATP title by defeating Serbia’s own rising star Hamad Medjedović in straight sets. This momentous win ended a five-year title drought for Shapovalov, who celebrated by receiving the trophy from Serbian tennis icon Novak Djoković.
Denis Shapovalov, the 2024 Belgrade Open champion
Denis Shapovalov started his week in Belgrade having to qualify…
— Eurosport (@eurosport) November 9, 2024
…and finished it getting handed the trophy by Novak Djokovic ???? ???? #BelgradeOpen pic.twitter.com/0IKCoIX7Br
The final between qualifier Shapovalov and wildcard Medjedović delivered on the tournament’s promise of excitement. Shapovalov showcased his skill and experience to edge out the young Serbian with a 6-4, 6-4 win. His triumph was not only a personal comeback—marking his first title since 2019—but also a notable rise in the PIF ATP Live Rankings, where he jumped 22 spots. For Medjedovic, reaching the final was a major achievement and a proud moment for Serbian tennis, highlighting the promising future of this young talent.
The 2024 Belgrade Open Player Field
The Belgrade Open attracted established stars and rising talents. Competing alongside Shapovalov and Medjedović were top international players like Francisco Cerundolo, Stan Wawrinka, Jiri Lehecka, Frances Tiafoe, Nuno Borges, Brandon Nakashima, and Marin Cilic. Serbian fans also had the opportunity to cheer on their own, with local talents Miomir Kecmanović, Dušan Lajović, Laslo Djere, and eventual finalist Hamad Medjedović in the mix.
Belgrade Arena, the Perfect Venue
The tournament was initially due to be held in Gijon, Spain, but was relocated due to unforeseen operational matters. Belgrade Arena was the ideal setting for the Belgrade Open. A significant venue in Serbian sports history, it’s well known for hosting the 2010 and 2013 Davis Cup finals. With modern facilities, an 18,000-seat capacity, and a deep connection to Serbian tennis culture, the arena was the perfect choice for this ATP 250 event, underscoring Belgrade’s growing reputation as a premier host city for international tournaments.
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