Tournaments organized by the Požega, Karlovac, and Split tennis clubs have their place in the calendar of the Croatian Tennis Association, and the winners of all three, plus the player who earns the most points in these tournaments for the Association rankings, will get to compete in Umag. The Master's semi-finals will take place on Thursday, 21 July, and the final is scheduled for late evening hours on Friday, 22 July, as the best possible introduction to the ATP tournament.
“After the success of its first edition, Road to Umag is just bound to go on. Last year we realized that this format was the fairest way to offer a chance to young Croatian players and thus promote tennis in Croatia”, said Tomislav Poljak, director of Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag. “Based on the players’ suggestions, we have made some minor changes to the format and reduced the number of Masters competitors from six to four, and consequently the number of matches, to ensure that the winner stays as rested as possible for the ATP qualifications. Also, last year we handed out three invitations for the Masters, which won’t be the case this time – the ticket to the Masters will have to be earned in the Požega, Karlovac and Split tournaments."
Matija Pecotić was last year’s winner of Road to Umag. He beat Božo Barun in an exciting final, only to be stopped in the thrilling final round of the Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag qualifications by the German Daniel Altmaier (currently No. 54 in the world), who later played the ATP semi-finals.
“This is the only opportunity to feel an ATP tour vibe in Croatia and play in a stunning location such as Stella Maris. [Last year’s] tournament was fantastic, we watched some great tennis in a truly competitive ambiance. I recommend everyone to try their luck in the Road to Umag series”, said Pecotić.
