Preview of the Just Pools Kirschbaum Internationals, the ITF tournament in Meerbusch

Despite all the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic, tennis tournaments are still taking place in Germany. From April 11th to 18th, 2021, the men's tennis players will compete in the $25,000 ITF Just Pools Kirschbaum International tournament at the Teremeer in Meerbusch. Compared to last year, the traditional tournament has seen a significant increase in prize money and ranking. This naturally means that a top-class field will certainly be competing in Meerbusch, as there are considerably more ATP points up for grabs.

We are delighted to be able to accompany and support the tournament as a tournament partner

After 15 years in Kaarst, the "Just Pools Kirschbaum International" will be held for the first time at the Sport & Tennis Resort Meerbusch. The ITF World Tour men's event is expanding significantly and will take place from April 11th to 18th, 2021, with a prize purse of $25,000. The event boasts a remarkable history, having hosted such renowned players as Milos Raonic (CAN), Mischa Zverev, Peter Gojowczik, Philipp Petzschner, Maxi Marterer (all GER), Miroslav Mecir (SLO), and Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO). Basilashvili recently caused a sensation at the ATP 250 tournament in Doha, where he defeated superstar Roger Federer in the second round and later won the entire tournament with a 7-6, 6-2 victory over Roberto Bautista-Agut in the final.

“We are very proud that, despite the adverse circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic, we were able to increase the prize money for the Just Pools Kirschbaum International this year from $15,000 to $25,000 thanks to the support of the German Tennis Federation and the ITF,” said organizer Marc Raffel. The defending champion is Dutch Davis Cup player Igor Sijsling, who won the tournament in 2018 and 2019. Last year, due to the pandemic, the Just Pools Kirschbaum International was played without awarding world ranking points. Buvaysar Gadamauri (BEL) defeated Mick Feldherr (NED) 6-7, 7-6, 11-9 in the final.

“Just Pools” is the new presenting partner

The winner of the upcoming "Just Pools Kirschbaum International" will receive 20 ATP world ranking points in addition to their winner's check. Organizer Marc Raffel is also extremely pleased with the support of the sponsors accompanying the ITF tournament. Besides title sponsor Kirschbaum, almost all of the traditional partners have given their approval. Furthermore, the Meerbusch-based company Just Pools will be a new presenting partner, and the new B&B Hotel in Neuss will be a new senior partner.

Incidentally, the event is being held as part of the exclusive "DTB International powered by Wilson" series. Before the 32-player main draw begins on April 13, 2021, there will be a three-day qualifying round with 64 players (starting April 11, 2021). The 16-player doubles main draw also starts on April 13, 2021. "We anticipate that due to COVID-19 restrictions, few or no spectators will be allowed, however, all matches will be streamed live on internet TV," said Raffel. If spectators are permitted, a day ticket will cost €15.