NICEVILLE, FL (November 2, 2018) -- The 10th Annual Bluewater Bay Pro Circuit Championships, a $15K USTA Pro Circuit event, began Friday at the Bluewater Bay Tennis Center. Players from 28 countries will compete in the 128 players qualifying draw to earn one of eight spots in the main draw, which begins Tuesday.
Among the 48 matches contested, only one seeded play was upset in the first round, with 20 year old American Mwendwa Mbithi taking out number nine seed Gabriel Diaz Friere of Spain in three sets, 3-6 7-5 6-0. Twelve American players have advanced to the second round of qualifying thus far.
The USTA Pro Circuit serves as an important stepping stone for rising professional tennis players. Success at Pro Circuit events offers players an opportunity to rise in the rankings and compete on the ATP World Tour. Players in Niceville with compete for valuable ranking points and prize money.
Dozens of former tournament players have gone on to compete at grand slam tournaments and international competitions like Davis Cup. Patrick Kypson(USA) won the 2017 singles tournament while Juan Manuel Benitez Chavarriaga(COL) and Julian Lenz(GER) teamed up to earn the doubles trophy. Play continues Saturday with first and second round qualifying matches. Matches are free and open to the public.
For tournament info, contact Gary Bertoldo at: g.bertoldo@cliffdrysdale.com
For Media inquiries, contact Joey Hanf: j.hanf@cliffdrysdale.com