Can Mikael Ymer and Nordea Open Mend Fences to Save Båstad?

Mikael Ymer has extended an olive branch. Take it, Magnus Norman.

A hangover seems to be affecting this year's edition of the Nordea Open in Båstad. After last year's success, the lineup is significantly weaker. Grigor Dimitrov is the big name this year—a respectable one. But behind the seasoned Bulgarian, it looks thin.

Francisco Cerundolo and Hubert Hurkacz are good players, but they are not names that will enchant the center court.

Elias Ymer and junior prospect William Rejchtman Vinciguerra have been awarded the first two wildcards for this year's tournament. They are not expected to perform any miracles.

One wildcard remains to be awarded.

I hope Nordea Open seizes the opportunity

Why not give it to Sweden's best male player?

Nordea Open and Mikael Ymer are not the best of friends after the Swede attacked the tournament management two years ago. The outbursts were, of course, indefensible, and to this day, few know what the conflict is really about.

When I spoke with Mikael Ymer a few weeks ago, he reached out to Båstad in hopes of reconciliation. He opened up for a comeback. I hope Nordea Open seizes the opportunity.

The lineup is lackluster, and Mikael Ymer evokes mixed feelings among the Swedish audience. There are probably more people than you think who would prefer he stays home. But this summer presents a chance to repair the relationship and let Ymer show Båstad the entertaining tennis he can play.

Ymer may not repeat the magical moments Rafael Nadal offered last year, but he has the ability to spark excitement that this year's lineup otherwise does not seem capable of delivering.