The tie of the first round potentially could involve Tsonga who as of late has been attempting to make a comeback to the top and Pablo Andujar; who is not seeded but of course lost out to Gael Monfils in the Last 16 at the US Open.
Such players as Goffin, Paire and Pouille all get byes to the second round; but other ties include Jan-Lennard Struff against Pierre Hugues-Hubert; as well as Fernando Verdasco against Steve Darcis.
It is an ATP 250 event despite the line-up; but with the likes of Tsonga, Simon, Goffin and Pouille all previous winners; it acts as an important part of the hard court season.