Bahrain ATP Challenger kicks off

TDT | Manama

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The fourth edition of the Ministry of Interior ATP Challenger tennis tournament began yesterday in Bahrain, organized in collaboration between the Public Security Sports Association and the Public Security Officers Club. The opening day featured intense matches with a high level of competition from the participating players.

Russia’s Marat Sharipov started his campaign with a convincing victory over Egypt’s Karim Maamoun, winning in straight sets (7-5, 6-2). Sharipov displayed a strong performance, particularly in the second set, where he dominated with powerful serves and precise shots.

In another match, Italy’s Alberto Brozinetti secured a dominant win over Germany’s Justin Angel, also in straight sets (6-1, 6-4), showcasing an aggressive playing style that allowed him to quickly seal the victory.

One of the most thrilling encounters of the day saw Colin Sinclair of the Northern Mariana Islands overcome the Netherlands’ Ryan Nijboer in a hard-fought three-set battle. Despite losing the first set, Sinclair staged a comeback to claim victory (3-6, 6-4, 6-3), demonstrating resilience and tactical play.

Among Bahraini participants, Yousif Qaed fell to Bulgaria’s Dimitar Kuzmanov in straight sets, while compatriot Elias Abduljaleel struggled against Russia’s Petr Bar Biryukov, who secured a (6-2, 6-3) victory.

Egypt’s Fares Zakaria impressed with a commanding win over Germany’s Patrick Zheraj (6-2, 6-3), displaying speed and power in his shot exchanges. Elsewhere, Georgia’s Aleksandre Bakshi defeated Japan’s Kaichi Uchida (6-1, 6-4), while Ukraine’s Vitalii Sachko earned a solid victory over Ireland’s Peter Balderini in straight sets (6-3, 6-3).

Germany’s Lukas Gerch controlled his match against Ire- land’s Samir Hamza Raqiq, winning (6-2, 6-4) with dominant serving and precise shot-making.

The day’s matches concluded with Russia’s Yevgeny Lyutarevich defeating compatriot Ivan Lyutarevich (6-1, 6-4), while the Netherlands’ Jelle Sels secured a strong win against Britain’s Ali Habib (6-4, 6-2), excelling in an attacking display, particularly in the second set.

The tournament will continue in the coming days with more intense matchups expected between top-ranked players. A lively crowd has added to the tournament’s energetic atmosphere, with spectators eagerly anticipating further exciting clashes.