Former U.S. Open champion Marin Čilić greeted approximately 150 fans at a special autograph session on Oct. 25 at the Olympic Park Tennis Center during the 2026 Seoul Open Challenger. The 38-year-old Croatian star, who reached a career-high ranking of world No. 3, interacted closely with supporters ahead of the tournament’s main draw matches.
Fans Queue Early for the Grand Slam Champion
Supporters arrived early at the Songpa-district venue in Seoul to secure spots in line for the autograph event. Many attendees waited eagerly while holding memorabilia and clothing items for the former world No. 3 to sign. Čilić responded to the turnout by maintaining eye contact and greeting each fan with a smile throughout the session.
Kim Tae-hyung, a tennis fan in his 30s who attended the event, arrived early enough to become the first person to receive Čilić’s signature. Kim had the player sign his jacket and later described the encounter to Star News, noting the physical presence and intensity that accompanied a Grand Slam title holder.
A Decorated Career on the World Tennis Stage
Čilić arrives in the South Korean capital carrying a resume that includes the 2014 U.S. Open singles championship. During that run in New York, he defeated Roger Federer in the semifinals before overcoming Kei Nishikori in the final. He also reached the championship match at Wimbledon in 2017 and the Australian Open in 2018.
Despite more than a decade passing since his major victory in New York, the Croatian veteran continues to compete on the professional tour. His presence at the Challenger-level event in Seoul adds a notable resume to the tournament’s player field alongside domestic competitors.
Exhibition Booths and Opening-Round Matches Surround the Main Draw
The tournament grounds at Olympic Park featured food vendors and promotional booths alongside the courts to accommodate spectators attending the opening weekend. The preliminary rounds began with men’s singles qualifying matches ahead of the main draw schedule.
The Seoul Open Challenger runs from Oct. 25 through Nov. 1, with main draw competition opening on Oct. 26. Alongside international entrants like Čilić, South Korean player Kwon Soon-woo and 17-year-old prospect Cho Min-hyuk are slated to feature in the singles bracket as play progresses through the week.
Related reading
