A thrilling progression to the fourth round of the US Open, coupled with a career-best world ranking, fueled Australian tennis dynamo Alex de Minaur’s conviction to guide his nation to a successful outcome in the imminent Davis Cup campaign in the United Kingdom.
Following a 20-year intermission, since Australia last triumphed with the revered trophy, de Minaur expressed optimism about his team’s prospects, attributing it to the potent synergy within the team, steered ably by Lleyton Hewitt and featuring a refreshing contingent of emerging stars nearing their prime, all set to rectify the final round defeat to Canada the previous year.
Despite the absence of injured ace Nick Kyrgios, the Australian contingent boasts an impressive lineup. De Minaur himself boasts a career-best ranking of number 12, following his memorable performance in the US Open last 16, while compatriots, Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson, hold personal best rankings of 43 and 55 respectively. Thanasi Kokkinakis stands at 74, with Matt Ebden rounding out the team after a sterling performance in the men’s double final at Flushing Meadows.
Given Purcell’s scorching form, Hewitt had the luxury of omitting players ranked in the 50s – Aleksandar Vukic, Chris O’Connell, and Alexei Popyrin, for the opening rounds against home team Britain, Switzerland and France in Manchester. The responsibility of selecting the second singles player against a formidable UK squad featuring seasoned player Andy Murray, world number 17 Cameron Norrie and number 27 Dan Evans, remains incumbent on Hewitt.
Meanwhile, de Minaur harbors high hopes based on his recent performance and the form of his team. “I’m elated with the performances I’ve been manufacturing recently and eagerly anticipate the week ahead. These distinctive weeks when we rally together as a team are quite unique,” he articulated.
He further emphasized the team’s strong drive to win the group and belief in their collective strength. “Last year we exhibited our potential by staying united. We possess an invaluable team spirit and are there to support each other,” he said.
Hewitt, a member of the 2003 championship team, stressed the profound significance of the Davis Cup in Australian tennis history, expressing his desire to see his troops replicate his past glory. “I aim for these lads to inscribe their names on the Cup too,” he professed. “I have here a group of lads I truly believe in. Inspired by our performance last year, this team exudes belief and camaraderie. This solidarity is vital when you’re playing for one another, knowing that everyone will play a crucial role.”
He acknowledged last year’s near miss, emphasizing the team’s intensified determination this year.
The Australian Davis Cup journey commences in Manchester on Wednesday, with a necessity to finish among the top two in their group to secure their berth in the finals in Malaga.
