Pablo Carreno Busta: It’s “a dream” to play in front of home fans in Gijon

WATCH: Tommy Paul defeats Martin Landaluce in the first round of 2022 Gijon

Pablo Carreno Busta is enjoying the chance to play an ATP Tour event in his hometown of Gijon this week, something he didn't anticipate he would get to do during his career.

The Spanish city is holding this week's new 250-level tournament, the Gijon Open, organized by the Spanish tennis federation (RFET) and the Asturian Federation. Carreno Busta, ranked No. 15, is the second seed and a big draw for the crowds as he starts play with a win over Thiago Monteiro in the second round.

"It is a dream to play in front of my people, in my city," he told local press. "Coming in as the No. 2 seed is also very special.

"I will feel some pressure, but also the energy of the people, which will give me a little bit extra. For me, it is a unique opportunity, and I will try to take advantage of it 100 percent and enjoy it."

Though saying he is lacking rhythm following his recent injury and first-round exit in Sofia, the 31-year-old has had a solid season—including winning his first Masters 1000 title in Montreal and getting to the finals of Barcelona, also in Spain.

Recent geopolitical developments have led to tournament weeks opening up on the ATP schedule. But he was still surprised when one of the new stops was his hometown.

"Getting to have another tournament in Spain is incredible for our country," Carreno Busta said. "The effort of organizing everything in just two months, the Sports Palacio now with courts, has been spectacular.

"I had never imagined it, because I never thought Gijon would get the choice of having an ATP tournament.

"But given the circumstances, the Russian conflict and the [measures against the coronavirus] pandemic in China, it has been possible."

Andrey Rublev, ranked world No. 9, is the top seed.