DICK NORMAN
On behalf of the entire BNP Paribas Fortis European Open, I am delighted to welcome you to the 2025 edition of our tournament!
This year is extra special as we celebrate our 10th anniversary! And we’re doing so from a brand-new location: Brussels Expo.
Moving the tournament to our capital city has been a major undertaking, one made possible only through the dedication of many. Allow me to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved: our incredible volunteers, loyal sponsors, the entire BNP Paribas Fortis European Open team, and of course Kristoff Puelinckx and Tennium. Thanks to their commitment, this week is about more than just tennis. It’s about emotion, elegance, and unforgettable moments.
This tournament has also been made possible by our new partner, BNP Paribas Fortis, and marks a remarkable milestone for the tournament. This partnership goes far beyond sponsorship; it is a true commitment, a promise to elevate both Belgian and international tennis to new heights. From today, the tournament proudly carries the name BNP Paribas Fortis European Open.
As Tournament Director, I’m also particularly proud of the line-up we’re welcoming this year: a balanced and exciting mix of established stars and rising talent.
With Lorenzo Musetti, we’re hosting not only a Roland Garros semifinalist, but also a global star known for his elegant style and magnificent backhand. Félix Auger-
Aliassime, a former BNP Paribas Fortis European Open champion and US Open semifinalist, has already proven he can captivate the Belgian audience. Frances Tiafoe, a Roland Garros quarterfinalist and former world number ten, brings his trademark flair and fighting spirit to the court. Their presence promises fireworks. And keep an eye on João Fonseca, considered the next big thing in international tennis, a raw diamond whose journey is just beginning.
We’re also especially proud to welcome our homegrown heroes, Zizou Bergs, David Goffin and of course Raphaël Collignon, who is currently in top form. Their presence gives this anniversary edition a uniquely Belgian flavour, and we’re certain Brussels Expo will be shaking with excitement when they step on court!
Last but not least, we extend a warm welcome to all tennis fans. Our move to Brussels allows us to offer more comfort, more atmosphere, and more reasons to enjoy this incredible week. From worldclass tennis to our unforgettable 10th birthday celebration, we hope you’ll savour every moment.
Wishing you a fantastic week of tennis,
Dick Norman Tournament Director, BNP Paribas Fortis European Open
LE MOT DU BOURGMESTRE DE LA
VILLE DE BRUXELLES,
PHILIPPE CLOSE
Pour sa dixième édition, le prestigieux BNP
Paribas Fortis European Open de tennis a jeté son dévolu sur Bruxelles ! Le plus grand tournoi de tennis en Belgique, qui a déjà couronné des vainqueurs du Grand Chelem, prend de la sorte un nouvel élan.
En s’installant à Brussels Expo, le BNP
Paribas Fortis European Open va en effet pouvoir gagner en notoriété. Il se donne aussi les moyens de grandir, en accueillant un plus grand nombre de spectateurs et de joueurs à la réputation établie, dans un environnement spacieux et confortable.
C’est d’ailleurs à Brussels Expo que la Belgique a disputé à l’Australie une demifinale de Coupe Davis en 2017.
Capitale de l’Europe, la Ville de Bruxelles a naturellement vocation d’organiser de grands événements sportifs internationaux. Elle en a d’ailleurs l’expérience (départ du Tour de France, 20 kilomètres, Marathon, Mémorial Van Damme…). Ce savoirfaire nous a de même permis d’obtenir l’organisation des championnats du monde de cyclisme en 2030 tout en étant candidat
à l’accueil des championnats d’Europe d’athlétisme, afin de célébrer sportivement le bicentenaire de la Belgique.
Les grandes compétitions qui se tiennent sur notre territoire encouragent également la pratique sportive dont la Ville de Bruxelles fait la promotion inlassable en proposant des équipements de qualité dans les différents quartiers. Car c’est toujours une fierté de voir éclore de nouveaux talents bruxellois.
J’ai enfin la conviction que cette première édition bruxelloise du tournoi ATP 250 BNP Paribas Fortis European Open marque le début d’une belle et longue histoire entre les joueurs, le public et notre ville.
Du 12 au 19 octobre, vous pourrez satisfaire votre passion du tennis sur le magnifique site événementiel de Bruxelles qu’est Brussels Expo.
Philippe Close Maire de Bruxelles
FLORENCE FRELINX
Chers passionnés de tennis,
C’est avec une immense fierté que Bruxelles accueille pour la première fois le BNP Paribas Fortis European Open au cœur du prestigieux Brussels Expo. Cette 10ᵉ édition marque une étape importante : notre capitale prend le relais sur la ville d’Anvers et devient l’écrin d’un tournoi qui s’est imposé, en dix ans, comme un rendez-vous majeur du calendrier ATP.
Capitale de la Belgique et de l’Europe, Bruxelles rayonne bien au-delà de nos frontières. Ce rôle international nous engage à accueillir des événements sportifs de grande ampleur, à la hauteur de notre statut. Le BNP Paribas Fortis European Open s’inscrit pleinement dans cette ambition : placer notre ville au centre du jeu, offrir aux joueurs comme aux spectateurs une expérience sportive de premier plan et affirmer Bruxelles comme une véritable capitale du sport.
En tant que Première Échevine en charge des Sports, je souhaite que les grands évènements sportifs puissent rayonner dans tous les quartiers de la Ville de Bruxelles et permettre aux Bruxellois d’y adhérer pleinement. Le BNP Paribas Fortis European Open constitue une belle vitrine pour faire découvrir ou redécouvrir le tennis. Cet été, en collaboration avec les organisateurs du tournoi, de nombreuses initiations de street tennis ont été proposées à travers la Ville, offrant à de nombreux habitants l’occasion de s’essayer à ce sport.
Le tennis belge a connu de grands moments de gloire avec des légendes comme Justine Henin et Kim Clijsters. Aujourd’hui, la relève
est incarnée par Zizou Bergs, figure de la nouvelle génération, tandis que David Goffin continue de porter haut les couleurs du pays. Leur présence commune à Bruxelles fera de le BNP
Paribas Fortis European Open une vitrine exceptionnelle pour les voir briller sur le court.
Cette édition bruxelloise sera à la hauteur des attentes : un cadre moderne et accueillant, une capacité d’accueil renforcée, une fan zone animée, des infrastructures adaptées aux besoins des joueurs, et une ambiance qui saura faire vibrer le public.
Je vous invite à venir nombreux soutenir nos talents, découvrir de nouvelles étoiles montantes et partager ensemble une semaine de sport, de passion et d’émotion. Que vous soyez amateur éclairé, supporter fidèle ou simple curieux, Bruxelles vous ouvre grand ses portes pour célébrer le tennis.
Faisons de cette première édition bruxelloise un succès éclatant, digne de notre capitale et de son rôle sur la scène européenne.
Florence Frelinx
Première Echevine de la Ville de Bruxelles, en charge des Sports
MICHAEL ANSEEUW
BNP Paribas and tennis have stood together since 1973. For over fifty years we have been at the side of the game in all its forms. The brilliance of world class professionals. The joy of a child holding a racquet for the very first time. The dedication of local amateurs. The courage of wheelchair players. With our motto “We Are Tennis”, our pledge is clear: keep the sport open to all, nurture talent and share the joy of play.
In Belgium that pledge is visible every day. Since 2017, our Tennis Affinity Programme has helped over a third of all clubs with essential equipment, from nets and benches to umpire chairs, the things that make the game possible every day. It means players across the country can step on court and enjoy the game in the best conditions.
Alongside this, our Young Talent Team with the Justine Henin Academy has been renewed until 2028. Each year eight
promising players between 12 and 18 are given the support, financial and human, to chase their dreams and become the Zizou Bergs and Elise Mertens of tomorrow. And this year alone we supported eight international tournaments across Belgium. Each one a stage for tomorrow’s champions.
Now we take the next step: becoming title sponsor of the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open for the next four years. In the heart of Brussels, this tournament will stand as a beacon in the sporting calendar, alongside the great global events our Group supports such as Roland Garros, the Italian Open and Indian Wells.
To the organisers and partners: thank you. To the players and fans: let us savour this moment, celebrate the spectacle and cheer our black-yellow-red talents as they rise.
Michael Anseeuw CEO, BNP
Paribas Fortis
THE 2025 BNP PARIBAS FORTIS EUROPEAN OPEN: A SPECIAL EDITION
The 2025 BNP Paribas Fortis European Open is here. A week of suspense. Competition. Spectacle. A week where tennis fans from all over the world gear up for edge-of-your-seat battles. Intense joy. Crushing disappointment. And everything in between. Because this tournament is more than just tennis. It’s an experience. A vibe. Pure enjoyment. Enjoyment with a capital E.
This year, the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open is celebrating not only its tenth anniversary, but also a brand-new venue: Brussels. The heart of Belgium. The capital of Europe. And this week, the beating heart of world-class tennis. Bruxelles, ma belle. With Brussels Expo as its stage, get ready for power, passion and atmosphere like never before. Feel the energy. Feel the tension. Feel the game come alive.
This anniversary edition has plenty in store. The tournament is embarking on a bold new chapter with a title sponsor of stature: BNP Paribas Fortis. This partnership goes far beyond sponsorship. It is a commitment, a promise to elevate both Belgian and international tennis to new heights. From today, the tournament proudly carries the name BNP Paribas Fortis European Open. A name that radiates strength, inspires confidence, and enhances the prestige of this event even further.
And that’s not all: this edition also boasts a truly outstanding field of players. Starting with a top-tier player field: a blend of global stars and rising talents. From Musetti to Fonseca. From Goffin to Bergs. Blistering forehands. Elegant backhands. Thunderous serves. It’s shaping up to be a birthday we won’t soon forget.
But the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open is also the perfect excuse to (re) discover Brussels: a city of culinary surprises, cultural gems and vibrant nightlife. From Duden Park to Parc du Cinquantenaire. From the Marolles to the trendy Dansaert district. Brussels has it all. Sometimes raw, always full of charm.
The 2025 BNP Paribas Fortis European Open will be a tournament that excites and inspires. The tension is building, and each day brings new highlights. Whether you’re a die-hard tennis fan or just in the mood for a unique event, the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open welcomes you with open arms. So pick your seat, hold your breath and enjoy the show that’s about to unfold.
Enjoyment. With a capital E.
TOURNAMENT PROGRAM
MONDAY OCTOBER 13
CENTRAL COURT
TUESDAY OCTOBER 14
TUESDAY OCTOBER 14
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 15
THE BNP PARIBAS FORTIS EUROPEAN OPEN: A HISTORY OF CHAMPIONS
This new and special edition of the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open brings a great deal of excitement, especially for the players themselves. The battle for this prestigious title is often intense, with enthusiastic fans treated to top-level tennis, spectacular rallies, and world-class players fighting for every point.
Over the years, the list of participants has always been an interesting combination of established stars and promising young talents. A balanced mix of experience and ambition. Of elegance and power.
Many great names have appeared in the main draw of this prestigious tournament.
Legends from the past, such as Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka, alongside rising stars like Jannik Sinner and Stéfanos Tsitsipàs, have all shown their skills on Belgian courts.
Last year, experienced Spaniard Roberto Bautista-Agut claimed the title. With strong shots and great endurance, he managed to hold off the younger challengers. In the final, his experience proved decisive as he defeated Czech talent Jiri Lehecka in straight sets.
It was a tough battle with a well-deserved winner. Favorites like Alex de Minaur and Stéfanos Tsitsipàs had already been eliminated earlier in the tournament.
More than just a show of big names, the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open is a mix of styles. From Jannik Sinner’s speed and agility to Zizou Bergs’ fighting spirit. From Stan Wawrinka’s powerful backhand to Alexander Bublik’s creative shot-making. Belgium’s biggest tennis tournament captures the heart of every fan, time and time again.
This year’s program promises to be just as exciting. All eyes are on Lorenzo Musetti: a style icon, crowd favorite, and together with Jannik Sinner, a leading figure in Italian tennis. With a bronze medal from Paris and a Roland Garros semifinal appearance, Musetti has confirmed his place among the world’s best.
And the lineup is bursting with stars. Félix Auger-Aliassime, the Canadian powerhouse and 2022 champion, returns to stake his claim for the title. Frances Tiafoe, the charismatic American, made his mark with a Roland Garros quarterfinal and a career-high ranking in the world’s top 10.
And don’t miss João Fonseca, the Brazilian supertalent hailed by many as the next big thing in international tennis.
Belgian pride takes center court as well. David Goffin, Zizou Bergs and Raphaël Collignon, who is currently in top form. Belgian tennis’ top stars are ready to captivate the home crowd. Brace yourself for passion, flair, and unforgettable moments: this is tennis at the very highest level.
Brussels Expo is preparing for a grand celebration. The arena will surely roar with excitement. Young players are eager to challenge the established stars. At the same time, the big names will give their all to add this special tenth edition to their list of achievements.
The excitement is building. The players are getting ready. The fans are counting down. Who will lift the trophy this year?
TOP SEEDED PLAYERS
LORENZO MUSETTI
Nationality: Italian Age: 23
Height: 1,85 m
Highest ranking: 6
ATP titles: 2
Fun Fact: If he wasn’t a tennis player, he would be an actor. His favourite actor is Al Pacino and his favourite superhero is Batman.
FÉLIX AUGER-ALIASSIME
Nationality: Canadian Age: 25
Height: 1,93 m
Highest ranking: 6
ATP titles: 7
Fun Fact: If he wasn’t a tennis player, he would be an artist. Enjoys playing piano and performed at 2019 ATP Masters 1000 Monte Carlo player party.
FRANCES TIAFOE
Nationality: American Age: 27
Height: 1,88 m
Highest ranking: 10
ATP titles: 3
Fun Fact: Nickname is Big Foe. Began playing tennis against a wall at the age of 3. Enjoys going to the movies and watching basketball and American Football.
JOÃO FONSECA
Nationality: Brazilian Age: 19
Height: 1,88 m
Highest ranking: 44
ATP titles: 1
Fun Fact: Has good relationship with Brazilian legend Gustavo Kuerten, first interacting with Kuerten at the Davis Cup in February 2024.
ZIZOU BERGS
Nationality: Belgian Age: 26
Height: 1,85 m
Highest ranking: 48
ATP titles: 0
Fun Fact: Says his secret talent is that he’s a musician. Plays both piano and guitar. Favourite food is Belgian fries, but guilty pleasure is chocolate.
DAVID GOFFIN
Nationality: Belgian Age: 34
Height: 1,80 m
Highest ranking: 7
ATP titles: 6
Fun Fact: Nickname is La Goff. Began playing tennis at age 6 with his dad. Enjoys playing golf.
INTERVIEW LORENZO MUSETTI
LORENZO: “THE PARIS BRONZE WAS THE MOMENT I FELT PROUDEST”
Young and already a Wimbledon and Roland Garros semi-finalist, Lorenzo singles out the Olympic bronze in Paris — Italy’s first tennis medal in a century. After a difficult spell with injuries, he emphasises that the support of his family and team helped him stay grounded and focused. He now arrives excited to make his debut in Brussels for the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open`s tenth anniversary, keen to put on an entertaining, competitive display and enjoy the fans.
Lorenzo, despite your young age, you’ve already achieved impressive results: a semifinal at Wimbledon, a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, and recently a semifinal at Roland Garros. These achievements are hard to compare, but which of these victories and highlights do you remember most fondly?
For me, the achievement I feel most proud of so far is winning the bronze medal for my country at the Paris Olympics. It had been a hundred years since Italy last won an Olympic tennis medal, so that moment on the court, representing my country, was incredibly special. I think it’s probably the time I’ve felt the proudest of myself in my career.
Besides your great wins, you also faced some tough moments this year, such as injuries that forced you to retire in the Roland Garros semifinal, and an early exit at Wimbledon. What have you learned from that difficult period, and how do you carry those lessons into the future?
Yes, it has definitely been a challenging period, especially after such a strong clay season that brought me into the top 10 and gave me incredible confidence. What
really helped me was having my family and my team by my side. They know how to make me feel comfortable even in tough moments, and that support is something I carry with me moving forward. It reminds me to stay grounded and focused, no matter what happens on the court
In 2021, you played the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open, where you narrowly lost a close match against your fellow countryman Jannik Sinner. What do you remember most from that match and the tournament in general?
I remember that match in Antwerp very well. I played really well against Jannik, and I think it was a great show for the tournament. The atmosphere was amazing— the stadium was crowded, and it was a lot of fun for all the players. It’s one of those tournaments that stays with you because of the energy and the people there.
You will soon reconnect with the Belgian public and the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open, which is being held in Brussels for the first time this year while also celebrating its tenth anniversary. What are your expectations and ambitions for this special edition?
I’m really excited to debut in Brussels, which I know is such a beautiful city that I’ve always wanted to visit. For the tournament itself, I hope to show the crowd my tennis, which I think is a bit different from others. I want to give them an entertaining and competitive show and really enjoy this special edition with the fans.
INTERVIEW ZIZOU BERGS
ZIZOU: “FIRST I MUST REBUILD, THE GOALS WILL COME LATER”
After a season of ups and downs — reaching finals and semi-finals but losing his way in competition — Zizou stresses the key lesson: stay true to his values as both a person and a player. His priority now is to rebuild and rediscover himself on court before he starts chasing ranking targets like a top-30 finish. He arrives at the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open in Brussels hopeful that the home crowd’s support will give him the extra boost to show his very best tennis.
Zizou, the past year has had its highs and lows. You achieved impressive results, like the semifinal in Marseille and the final of the Libéma Open, but you also faced tougher times, both on and off the court. How are you doing now? And what lessons are you taking with you into the future?
There have definitely been highs and lows. The lows weren’t so much about losing matches early, but more about not feeling good on court. Off the court I felt fine, but in competition I lost touch with myself, both as a person and as a player. And when that happens, it’s hard to enjoy the game. I realized that even when you’re getting good results: a final in Auckland, a semifinal, another final soon after, it can still feel overwhelming if the stress isn’t the kind you thrive on. Normally, I love the stress of big moments, it pushes me to play my game. But this year, it often felt like pressure without joy. The biggest lesson I’ve taken from it is simple but powerful: stay true to your values, both as a person and as a player. That’s the only way to really enjoy the journey and perform at your best.
You’ve been part of the top 100 for a while and have already beaten some big names. What are the next goals you’ve set for yourself? Or has that difficult period changed your perspective on ambition and progress?
Before the season started, my goal was clear: break into the world’s top 30. At the beginning it even looked realistic, but then I ran into some challenges: a mismatch with my coach, other personal difficulties… That combination made me lose my way for a while. I had to take a step back, reset, and focus on finding myself again on the tennis court. Once that foundation is solid, I’ll start chasing ranking goals again. But first comes rebuilding, and making sure Zizou is truly back.
Last year, you started the tournament full of ambition. You had huge support from the crowd, and after strong wins over Diaz Acosta and Baez, hope grew for a big upset. In the quarterfinals, however, you eventually lost to Giron. How do you look back on that edition?
Honestly, I look back with a smile. Sure, I lost pretty easily in the quarters, but Giron played an amazing match that day, credit to him. Still, I had fun out there. I pulled off some cool shots, shared moments with the crowd, and for the first time at the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open I managed to win two matches in a row. That created a bit of hype, especially with the fans and my family around. It reminded me why this tournament is so special to me. It’s one I desperately want to win someday, so in many ways last year felt like a first step in that journey.
You’ve often said that playing at home gives you an extra boost. What do you expect from this anniversary edition, taking place for the first time in Brussels? And with what ambitions are you entering the tournament?
Playing at home always gives me something extra. It’s pressure, yes; a lot of people come to watch, expectations are high, but it also feels like I’m playing for something bigger than myself. It’s about making a country proud. I once read an article about why nations invest so much in the Olympics: because it gives people that sense of pride in their athletes. I believe that’s true in tennis as well. When I play at home, I feel that responsibility and that energy. And honestly, I love it. I thrive in atmosphere, whether it’s a football, basketball or handball match. So when a tennis stadium has that same vibe, it locks me in completely. That’s the kind of energy I’m hoping for in Brussels. With that support, I’m convinced I can show my very best tennis.
INTERVIEW JOÃO FONSECA
At 18, after climbing 500 places in the ATP rankings João has broken into the top 50 and treats attention and pressure as fuel. He arrives in Brussels excited to make his BNP Paribas Fortis European Open debut and ready to give his best.
João, you’ve made an incredible rise of no less than 500 spots in the ATP rankings this year, and at just 18 years old, you’re already inside the top 50. Many experts are calling you the ‘next big thing’; a potential challenger to stars like Alcaraz and Sinner. How do you personally experience this rapid rise? Do you realise everything that’s happening, and what are your dreams for the future?
Everything in my career has happened very fast. One moment I was playing at my club in Rio, then suddenly I was at a Roland Garros junior pre-qualifying event, winning it, and from there competing in the Grand Slam itself. Not long after, I became the 2023 US Open junior champion, and now I’m experiencing my first full year on tour, playing the most important tournaments in the world.
My dream is to become world number one and to win a Grand Slam. That’s the goal. I know the road ahead is long, but that’s where I want to get.
With your quick rise, all eyes are now on you. How do you handle the growing attention, the pressure, and the high expectations that are already being placed on your name?
I love playing for and representing my country. Of course, there’s always pressure at this level, that’s part of it, but I try to embrace it. Sometimes things go my way, sometimes they don’t, but each experience helps me learn and improve. What motivates me most is knowing that people are inspired by what I’m doing.
Top-level tennis players from Brazil are quite rare. Here in Belgium, we immediately think of Gustavo Kuerten, who famously knocked out Filip Dewulf in the semifinals of Roland Garros. Do you feel the support from your home country? And what does it mean to you to represent Brazil at this level?
I always feel a lot of support from Brazil. Sometimes it’s almost like playing in a soccer match, the fans bring so much energy. I love the atmosphere they create and the incredible vibe they bring to my matches.
This year marks your debut at the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open. What are your expectations and ambitions coming into the tournament, and what are you hoping to take away from your time in Belgium?
I’m really looking forward to playing in Belgium, in Brussels. It will be my first time there, just like many of the tournaments I’ve played this year. I’m super excited to discover new places and experiences, and I’ll be ready to give my very best.
INTERVIEW DAVID GOFFIN
After a brilliant start — including wins over Shelton and Alcaraz — a foot injury in Madrid interrupted his season. His foot is fully healed and his priority is to regain confidence and close the year on a high. He returns to Brussels Expo with fond memories — notably the Davis Cup win over Kyrgios — and is determined to make the most of the Brussels edition.
David, you started the season strong, with impressive wins over players like Shelton and Alcaraz. Unfortunately, injuries slowed you down afterwards. How are you feeling now? How do you reflect on your season so far, and what goals do you still have for the rest of the year?
Yes, overall it’s been a good season. After the Australian Open I had some strong performances, with wins over top players like Shelton and Alcaraz, and I was feeling great again. I also started the clay season at a very high level, but unfortunately in Madrid I picked up a foot injury that kept me out for two or three months. Now my foot is completely healed – that injury is 100% behind me, which is a big relief. At the moment I’m still working on regaining confidence, and the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open along with the last few tournaments of the year will be very important. They’re key moments for me to try to finish the season strong, with a good level and a positive feeling heading into next year. Hopefully I can fight my way back and rediscover my best tennis.
This year, the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open takes place in Brussels for the very first time, specifically in Brussels Expo. A venue that surely brings back special memories for you: in 2017, you lit up the stadium during that legendary Davis Cup match, where you defeated Australian star Nick Kyrgios after three intense sets. What stands out to you when you look back on that match and the atmosphere in Brussels Expo?
Of course, I have some amazing memories at Brussels Expo. The only time I played there was during the Davis Cup semifinal against Australia. We performed at an incredible level as a team, and I’ll never forget my match against Kyrgios, it was one of the best wins of my career. At that point I was playing my very best tennis on clay, and the atmosphere was just magical. So I’m really excited to come back to a place where I’ve had the best feeling ever. Let’s see how it will be for this tournament, but I’m sure it will be an amazing venue once again.
The BNP Paribas Fortis European Open is familiar territory for you. You’ve played the tournament six times already, reaching the quarterfinals and semifinals, and competing in memorable matches against top players like Schwartzman, Gasquet, and Tsitsipàs. Which moments or memories stand out the most for you from those editions?
I’ve played some great matches over the years at the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open, with tough battles against top players like Gasquet, Schwartzman, and Tsitsipàs. There were editions where I was playing really well, and others where I struggled more with confidence. But I definitely have a lot of good memories there, and the atmosphere on that court has always been special.
I felt I had a real chance a few times, especially in the semifinal where I had match point. It would have been amazing to reach a final in my home country. I also remember my match against Tsitsipàs, when I was playing at a very high level. That year it felt like it could have been my tournament. Now, after many years
in Antwerp, the event moves to Brussels, which almost feels like a new tournament. For me, it’s a fresh opportunity to win matches, enjoy the support of an incredible crowd, and create another great atmosphere. I’ll give everything I have that week to play my best tennis.
This special anniversary edition has a great line-up. What are your expectations for the tournament, and for your own performance?
Once again this year, the tournament has attracted some amazing players. The field is always strong here, as it’s the first indoor event in the final part of the season. For all of us, it’s an important moment to feel good and finish the year on a high. That’s also my goal; to bring my best tennis, play at a great level, and start this last part of the season with confidence.
I’ll be fully prepared in Brussels, giving 110% to perform well. A strong result here would mean a lot to me, not only for my confidence but also to close the year in the best possible way. There will be top players in the draw, but I’ll do everything I can to be ready and hopefully create a surprise.
Met Peter Van de Veire
& M argaux Bogae
Elke weekdag vanaf 6 uur op Ra dio 2
Luister naar Ra dio 2. Ook op
TENNIUM: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF TENNIS
In 2015, Kristoff Puelinckx and former ATP player Sébastien Grosjean set out with a clear vision: to create a company that would bring world-class tennis to passionate fans while nurturing the next generation of talent. Since then, Tennium has grown into a leading force in the tennis world.
Tennium’s dedication to delivering unforgettable experiences has been at the heart of every tournament it organizes. Over the years, the company has expanded its portfolio to include some of the most prestigious tennis events for both men and women, from the Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell ATP 500 and Bitpanda Hamburg Open ATP 500 to the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open ATP 250 and the IEB+ Argentina Open ATP 250, as well as nine WTA tournaments across South America and Spain. Alongside these, Tennium is also involved in renowned international competitions such as the Hopman Cup, Davis Cup, and Billie Jean King Cup. Each tournament draws thousands of fans, showcasing world-class tennis and creating moments that linger long after the final point is played.
Beyond the tournaments themselves, Tennium has built a reputation for player management, supporting both emerging talents and established stars. Every athlete receives tailored guidance to help them reach their full potential, both on and off the
court. This commitment extends to building strong partnerships with global brands, connecting players, sponsors, and fans in a dynamic ecosystem that amplifies the reach and appeal of the sport.
From VIP experiences to fan-centered events, Tennium is redefining how tennis is enjoyed. Its holistic approach, combining event management, player development, marketing, and investment strategy, ensures that each tournament is not just a competition but a complete tennis experience.
Looking ahead, Tennium’s vision is clear: to redefine the tennis experience. Whether it’s the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open, the Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell, or other prestigious events, the company continues to elevate the sport, celebrate excellence, and bring the passion of tennis to audiences everywhere. Tennium is more than an organization; it is a movement, shaping the sport from within and inspiring the next generation of players and fans alike.
Kristoff Puelinckx: “As part of our commitment to top-class tennis events, we proudly organize the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open, a tournament that brings the best players to the heart of Belgium. It perfectly demonstrates our dedication to promoting the sport and providing an unforgettable experience for fans.”
Ilse van Parys, Event Director of the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open: “I am honoured to lead this incredible event. Bringing the world’s top players to Belgium allows tennis fans to enjoy the highest level of sport. Our goal is to create a memorable experience for both players and fans, with thrilling matches and a lively atmosphere. The BNP Paribas Fortis European Open plays a key role in promoting tennis in our country, and I am extremely proud of that. This year, we are especially excited as the tournament moves to Brussels for the very first time. Hosting the event in our capital city will give us the opportunity to reach even more fans and showcase the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open on an even bigger stage.”
Ilse Van Parys
Kristoff Puelinckx Sébastien Grosjean
OPEN SQUARES, BUZZING STREETS, SMILING FACES: STREET TENNIS TAKES OVER BRUSSELS
The BNP Paribas Fortis European Open is for everyone. Because it’s more than an international tennis tournament filled with world-class athletes and rising stars. It’s also about bringing the sport closer to the people. The organization embraces a social mission. With the Street Tennis initiative, the game finds its way into the beating heart of Brussels.
Open squares. Buzzing streets. Smiling children. Youngsters all over the city get the chance to experience tennis through lively and engaging games. Accessible, joyful, and full of energy.
By taking the sport out of its traditional setting, a new generation gets the chance to explore tennis in a spontaneous and engaging way. No pressure, just pure enthusiasm. Street Tennis isn’t just about learning the basics; it’s about moving together. Exploring together. Growing together. And of course, winning some fun prizes along the way!
But this initiative goes beyond sports. It brings people together: children, parents, people from all backgrounds. Sharing the same space. The same energy. The same joy. It strengthens community bonds and deepens the connection between the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open and Brussels, this year’s proud host city for the very first time.
And there’s more. While children play with rackets and balls, they’re also picking up essential life skills: teamwork, resilience, perseverance. Far from phones and tablets, close to each other. Tennis as a school for life.
With Street Tennis, the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open shows that tennis is not only healthy and fun, it’s a powerful driver of personal growth. A game that gets children moving on the court, and maybe, beyond it too. Always with a smile, and maybe even with a dream?
Ethias NextGen Day: a glimpse of tomorrow’s stars
The BNP Paribas Fortis European Open is an event for everyone. One of the true highlights of the tournament is the Ethias NextGen Day, An opportunity for young Belgian talents to shine. Tournament director Dick Norman describes it as “a unique and meaningful part of the tournament” and sees the day becoming a cherished tradition: “Young players need inspiration and a stage to perform. Thanks to the support of Ethias, we’re able to give them just that, year after year.”
The Ethias NextGen Day is more than just a day on the calendar. It’s an investment in the future of Belgian tennis. A day filled with ambition, energy, and potential. A day where tomorrow’s champions step into the spotlight. Players like Zizou Bergs, GillesArnaud Bailly, and Alexander Blockx have
already shown what’s possible when talent meets hard work. They prove that dreams can become reality.
On Sunday, October 12, the BNP Paribas Fortis European Open will become the stage for the stars of tomorrow. A full day dedicated to Belgian tennis talent, offering a rare look behind the scenes of life on the professional circuit. For young players, it’s an opportunity to learn, to grow, and above all, to dream.
A highlight is the exclusive tennis conference, where world-class speakers share their knowledge and insights, giving practical tips to help young players raise their game. A true moment of inspiration, all brought together in one place, on one unforgettable day.
“The Ethias NextGen Day gives young players more than just a unique experience. It gives them a real push toward their own tennis dreams. Ethias shares that vision wholeheartedly, and together we are helping shape the future of Belgian tennis”
Dick Norman, Tournament Director
“At Ethias, our focus is always on the future. That’s why we actively support young players through various initiatives. With the Ethias NextGen Day, we not only offer them opportunities, but also a platform to grow. In doing so, we help shape the champions of tomorrow”
Peter Maris, Head of Brand Activation at Ethias
