Cilic, Baghdatis soldiers for a day in zagreb Croatia

Marin Cilic and Marcos Baghdatis soaked up some Croatian culture Monday as main draw play kicked off at the PBZ Zagreb Indoors.

Dressed in the traditional garb of the Cravat Regiment, which made its name as part of the French Royal Army during the 17th century, the two players enjoyed a ceremonial walk through the city and a photo opportunity at St. Mark’s Square in Zagreb’s Upper Town.

Though Cilic has been unable to compete since the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals last November due to a nagging shoulder injury, the Croat enjoyed making an appearance at his home event.

“I have never experienced anything like this,” said the World No. 8. “It is extremely special to experience it in Zagreb. It is nice to learn from the past and history and to use my time off in a positive way.”

As for his shoulder, the 2014 US Open champion is waiting patiently for his return to the court.

“I am having a slow recovery which is not easy to cope with,” he said. “I have to wait another 10 days before I can start hitting tennis balls. It is a tough time, but I am looking forward to the rest of the season. Hopefully it will be OK when I start playing.”

Baghdatis, ranked No. 67 in the Emirates ATP Rankings after making a run to the third round at the Australian Open (l. to Dimitrov), will open his Zagreb campaign against Croatian wild card Toni Androic. Should he win, the Cypriot will next face top seed Ivo Karlovic