2016 Davis Cup Semis/Playoffs Preview

The 2016 Davis Cup semifinals will be contested this weekend in Glasgow, Great Britain and Zadar, Croatia.  There's also the 8 World Group playoff ties to be played on 4 continents.  Here's my thoughts:

Semifinals

Argentina at Great Britain: An inform Del Potro is back in the fold for the Argentines against the defending champion Brits, who now have some depth behind Murray with the play of Edmund and Evans recently.  It's an uphill battle for Argentina battle with Delbonis and Pella not quite in the form of earlier this year.  I feel like they could get a tremendous tie from Del Potro and still lose with the Murray brothers in doubles.  And with Del Potro playing no. 2 singles it's certainly not a given that they'll win a point on day 1.  I think Argentina gets a point somewhere whether a heroic effort or Pella beating Edmund, but they'll need to 2 in the first 2 todays to prevent Murray from clinching vs Pella or Delbonis (or even Mayer).  GBR 3 ARG 1

France at Croatia: France doesn't have Monfils or Tsonga available but they still can field a strong team with Gasquet and Pouille, not to mention the world's top doubles team of Herbert/Mahut.  Cilic was brought down to earth by Sock at the Open and Coric has only been so-so recently.  I'm not sure if Gasquet will be much good but we have two very intriguing first day matches.  If those are split, France should win the doubles and then all they need is a Pouille win on Sunday to seal the deal.  That's what I'm going with but there all several permutations of this tie and every rubber but the doubles is at least somewhat up in the air.  FRA 3 CRO 2

World Group Playoffs

Switzerland at Uzbekistan: The Swiss are not without Federer and Wawrinka but also the experience Chiudinelli, leaving an improved Laaksonen and some guy named Bellier to take on Istomin and Dustov.  I can't believe Istomin will let this opportunity slip, especially at home.  He'll win all 3 points, as per usual in Asian group ties, and the Uzbeks will make their World Group debut next year.  UZB 3 SUI 1 

Brazil at Belgium: Last year's finalists are the verge of being relegated the following year, and they could upset year.  Goffin hasn't been great recently and Brazil has the solid doubles tandem of Melo/Soares plus the rising Monteiro to compliment Bellucci.  I think Brazil extends this to a live 5th rubber with wins by Bellucci and the doubles, but the veteran Darcis rescues the hosts by defeating Monteiro in a live 5th rubber.  BEL 3 BRA 2

Slovakia at Australia: The Aussies have way too much firepower for the Slovaks, especially at home on their beloved grass.  They'd be favorites even without Kyrgios and Tomic against Kovalik and Martin, who have had decent years.  But this tie could turn into a rout very quickly.  AUS 3 SVK 0

Chile at Canada: This tie does not feature a top 100 with Raonic's absence and Pospisil falling in the rankings, but the Canadians should be able to handle the Chileans.  Dancevic often shows up well in Davis Cup, and the tie won't be played on clay, where Jarry and Garin would certainly want it to be.  With Nestor not playing either, there's a chance the teen sensation Shapovalov gets some action, at least in a dead rubber.  I think Chile may find a way to win a rubber but certainly not the tie.  CAN 3 CHI 1

Kazakhstan at Russia: This has the potential to be one of the better ties of the eight playoffs, especially since the Kazakhs generally punch above their level in Davis Cup.  Kuznetsov has had a nice year for the Russians and he's joining by Donskoy, Kravchuk, and Rublev to battle Kukushkin, Nedovyesov, and Golubev.  Kukushkin has been great in Davis Cup and will certainly have a chance in his singles matches.  Russia also occasionally flounders at home, so I'm going to pick an upset here.  Kazakhstan is too good in this competition and Russia's team doesn't inspire lots of confidence.  KAZ 3 RUS 1

Spain at India: At least the Indian tennis fans will get to see Nadal and Ferrer perform their craft.  What a bum draw for India, who finally has some singles players who inspire a modicum of hope, Ramanathan made the quarters in Chennai and Myneni qualified for the Open, but they have no chance against the Spanish.  I'll give them the benefit of the doubt and say Paes and whoever manages to beat the Lopez/Lopez doubles team, but that's certainly not a given.P  ESP 3 IND 1

Poland at Germany: What on earth happened to Janowicz? Well, it doesn't matter, because he's not even here.  Two guys I don't know (Majchrzak and Hurkacz) will play singles for Poland against not a great German team with Mayer and Struff, but they should be plenty good to win their singles matches.  I'll give the doubles to Kubot/Matkowski though.  GER 3 POL 1

Ukraine at Japan: Dolgopolov is not here, and Nishikori and Stakhovsky have not been nominated on day 1, which means the in form Marchenko is the highest ranked singles player.  Japan has nominated able singles players in Daniel and Nishioka while Ukraine's second is Smirnov.  There's a scenario for Ukraine Marchenko wins on day 1 and steals the doubles with Stakhovsky playing, the Stakhovsky manages to beat Nishioka in a live 5th rubber after Nishikori extends the tie, but I'm not going to pick that.  JPN 3 UKR 1

Zone Group I Relegation Ties

Colombia at Dominican Republic (loser plays Barbados in relegation tie): Hardly any of the players here have had great years (Giraldo, Gonzalez, Estrella Burgos) and there's no Cabal to team with Farah to tip the Colombians in the doubles.  This tie has live 5th rubber written all over and going to go with the home team and Hernandez-Fernandez upsetting Gonzalez to win the tie.

Pakistan at New Zealand (loser relegated): Pakistan playing without Qureshi and are already down 1-0, so going with the Kiwis here.

Slovenia at Portugal (loser relegated): Slovenia has only one player ranked in the top 750 (Zemlya #158) and the top 100 Portuguese in Sousa and Elias. This should be a fairly straightforward affair.

Netherlands at Sweden (loser plays Israel in relegation tie): The Ymer brothers are slated to take on Haase and de Bakker with Rojer looming in the doubles.  A few years from now maybe the Ymers can make this competitive, but I don't think that time is now.  The Swedes haven't even put their best foot forward in the doubles this time.  NED 3 SWE 0

Zonal Group II Promotion Ties

Venezuela at Peru

Taiwan at Thailand

Bosnia & Herzegovina at Lithuania - No Berankis so Dzumhur and Basic should roll.

Enjoy!

Denmark at Belarus

2016 Davis Cup Quarterfinals Preview

Another Davis Cup weekend is coming up, which seems a bit awkward in this, an Olympic year, as the competition now runs opposite tour events in Hamburg and Bastad besides the usual Newport.  Still, berths in the semis of the competition are on the line, as well as important ties in the zone groups.

World Group Quarterfinals

Great Britain at Serbia: The anticipated match between Djokovic and Murray won't take place, and it doesn't look like either player will be playing.  The host Serbs will also be without Troicki and so it will be Lajovic and Krajinovic to play Edmund and possibly Evans.  Edmund has had a nice year and Evans has been good in Davis Cup but Serbia is at home on clay, and their B-team usually plays pretty well in this competition.  They'll also field a decent doubles and while J.Murray is excellent, it is currently unclear who he'll play with.  I think Lajovic is ready to be a hero.  SRB 3 GBR 1

Argentina at Italy: Del Potro returns for the visitors alongside the rest of a team having good years in Delbonis, Pella, and Monaco, and the match will be played on clay.  Fognini, Seppi, and Lorenzi should be ready to go at home but Fognini hasn't been too good recently.  It's unclear exactly who win be playing for Italy, but given the recent from of Del Potro, I'm picking them to advance.  Italy can be tough to beat at home (ask A.Murray) but I think Argentina's depth will prevail on clay, possibly in a live 5th rubber.  ARG 3 ITA 2 

France at Czech Republic: France enjoyed an excellent Wimbledon and their two singles stars Tsonga and Pouille will be joined by doubles champs Herbert/Mahut to take on a Czech team without Berdych.  Vesely, Rosol, and Stepanek have been pretty good recently too but I think France is going to have way to much firepower.  There might be a lot of tiebreaks on this indoor hard court, and I think the Czechs will steal a rubber somewhere but winning 3 will be next to impossible.  FRA 3 CZE 1

Croatia at United States: The US hasn't played well against World Group competition at home recently, Cilic is coming off a great Wimbledon run, and neither Isner nor Sock have been playing great recently.  This tie could go either way and could hinge on the play of Coric.  If the US can be ahead 2-1 after the doubles, I think they can pull it off but they really need an Isner win on day 1, which isn't a given (see Ward in Glasgow).  I'm not very confident with this pick, but I think Nebraska's own Jack Sock will win a live 5th rubber over Coric (or Dodig) to send the US to the semis.  USA 3 CRO 2

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

Winners to playoffs

Spain at Romania: This match will be on a hard court in Romania but Bautista Agut and Lopez should be up to the challenge as Spain sends some guys who play on hards.  Romania doesn't have anyone ranked inside the top 150.  ESP 3 ROU 1

Austria at Ukraine: Thiem and Dolgopolov are both skipping this tie.  Ukraine is at home and has much better depth with Stakhovsky and Marchenko.  They should be able to cruise.  UKR 3 AUT 0

Netherlands at Russia: Many of the top Russians not in action so it's Gabashvili, Kravchuk, Rublev, and Karatsev vs Haase and de Bakker.  This could be an interesting tie with several experienced players on both sides and the wildcard in Rublev.  I think Russia finds a way to get this done at home, but really this is tough to predict.  RUS 3 NED 2

Hungary at Slovakia: Hungary has played well is Davis Cup the last couple years but Slovakia may be asking a little much.  Klizan isn't playing though so it may be possible for Fucsovics and Nagy to upset Martin, Kovalik (who's had a couple ATP wins this year), and Gombos.  But I don't think it will happen.  SVK 3 HUN 1

Americas Zonal Group I

Winners to playoffs

Ecuador at Brazil: Stranger things have happened but Brazil has Bellucci and a world class doubles team.  Ecuador has no one in the top 300.  BRA 3 ECU 0

Colombia at Chile: Chile has had a lot of young talent recently but not much success on the ATP.  This is a chance for them at home with no Falla for Colombia and Gonzalez in the second singles.  But Giraldo should be ready and Cabal/Farah are good in doubles.  COL 3 CHI 1

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

Winners to playoffs

South Korea at India: H.Chung is not playing for the Koreans so with Myneni, Ramanathan, and Bopanna/Paes, India shouldn't have much difficulty at home against a Korean team with no one in the top 400.  IND 3 KOR 1

China at Uzbekistan: China might be able to put up a little bit of a fight here as Wu and Zhang are ranked in the top 200, but Istomin is usually good for his 3 points and Dustov is an able second singles player at this level.  UZB 3 CHN 1

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

Promotion semis:

South Africa at Lithuania - no Berankis

Turkey at Bosnia & Herzegovina - Dzumhur a top 100 player

Latvia at Belarus - no Gulbis

Finland at Denmark - Nieminen scheduled to postpone retirement again

Relegation ties (losers to Group III):

Norway at Luxembourg - no Muller

Bulgaria at Tunisia - no Dimitrov, but Jaziri is here (ranked 58)

Egypt at Monaco - this might finally be the time Monaco's Group II stay ends

Zimbabwe at Georgia

Americas Zonal Group II

Promotion semis: 

Mexico at Peru

Venezuela at El Salvador

Relegation ties (losers to Group III):

Uruguay at Guatemala - no P.Cuevas

Puerto Rico at Paraguay

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

Promotion semis:

Taiwan at Philippines - no Lu or Wang as usual, but Taiwan still heavy favorites

Vietnam at Thailand

Relegation ties (losers to Group III):

Malaysia at Kuwait

Sri Lanka at Indonesia

Africa Zonal Group III

Pool A: Cameroon, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria

Pool B: Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar

Morocco, Namibia, and host Madagascar still undefeated after 2 or 3 ties, Nambia at 2-1

Americas Zonal Group III

Pool A: Bolivia, Cuba, Jamaica, Panama

Pool B: Bahamas, Bermuda, Costa Rica, Honduras, Trinidad & Tobago

Bolivia and Jamaica have clinched the top spots in Pool A, Bahamas (3-0) and Honduras (2-1) looking good in Pool B but Costa Rica (1-1) still alive

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group III

Pool A: Hong Kong, Iran, Pacific Oceania, Turkmenistan

Pool B: Cambodia, Lebanon, Qatar, Singapore, Syria

Host Iran, Syria, and Qatar still unbeaten after 2 rubbers each

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group IV

Pool A: Myanmar, Omar, Saudi Arabia, UAE

Pool B: Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Mongolia, Tajikistan

UAE, Jordan, and Iraq all still undefeated.

Give yourself a pat on the back if you made it all the way to the end.  I think these lower zones are intriguing, even if none of the players are ranked.  It's good to see them competing and tennis being promoted in these countries.  Have a great weekend and enjoy the Davis Cup!

2016 Davis Cup Week 1 Preview

The first weekend of Davis Cup for 2016 is here, later than the past few years.  And for some reason it seems a bit awkward in an Olympic.  But most of the top players are turning out for the countries this weekend, so an exciting weekend of tennis awaits.

World Group

Japan at Great Britain: Could this be a second successive year where the defending champions are knocked out on the opening weekend?  The burden will certainly be on (Andy) Murray to deliver.  And the doubles with his brother has turned out to be a strength for the Brits as well.  While it's feasible to see Nishikori upset Murray, I doubt Japan can win the doubles, and Edmund has improved enough to actually outrank the Japanese #2 Daniel.  GBR 3 JPN 1

Kazakhstan at Serbia: The Kazakhs have won at Czech Republic (with Berdych) along with several other upsets they've pulled.  (They've made the quarters the last 3 years and 4 of 5.)  But going against the world no. 1 is a different animal.  Troicki also outranks Kukushkin by more than 50 places, and Golubev is now outside the top 200.  They may pull an upset in one rubber but they're winning this tie.  SRB 3 KAZ 1

Switzerland at Italy: Fognini is skipping this tie but so are Federer and Wawrinka after their 2014 title so Italy with Seppi, Lorenzi, and Bolelli is heavy favorites against Chiudinelli and Laaksonen.  The "lesser" Swiss generally come to play in Davis Cup but Italy has too many weapons.  ITA 3 SUI 0

Argentina at Poland: Poland is making its World Group debut and with Janowicz, Kubot, and Matkowski will have a chance against Mayer, the in form Pella, and Berlocq.  But unless we see an improved Janowicz, I fear heartbreak for the hosting Poles.  Mayer can play on hards and Pella has had a good run (albeit on clay) in South America.  This might go 5, but I don't even recognize the Polish #2, who just 20 - Majchrzak. ARG 3 POL 2

Canada at France: France taking its tennis to the Caribbean island of Guadaloupe is pretty cool in my opinion, and the islanders will likely be impressed.  Roanic would have made this a competitive but he and Nestor have both pulled out.  The French Big 4 aren't in the greatest form but Tsonga, Gasquet, Simon, and Monfils should be able to breeze past Pospisil, Dancevic and company.  FRA 3 CAN 0

Czech Republic at Germany: Berdych and Stepanek are back on the Czech roster, which automatically gives them the doubles point, among other things.  Berdych may very well get all 3 points as I don't expect too much resistance from Kohlschreiber and Zverev or Brown.  The Czechs also have serviceable #2 singles from Vesely or Rosol, so I expect they'll prevail fairly easily.  CZE 3 GER 1

United States at Australia: This was set to be likely the most competitive tie until Kyrgios was forced to pull out, because let's face it, Isner and Sock would certainly rather play Groth.  Tomic might both his singles matches but the Bryans are likely going to win the doubles.  Isner played well in Australia prior to his disastrous experiment on South American clay, but I'm not so sure Sock was the pick here rather than the red hot Querrey.  That said, I do like Sock over Groth in a live 5th rubber and there's certainly the chance Isner beats Tomic.  USA 3 AUS 2

Croatia at Belgium: The Cilic Coric combination will be in action for the visiting Croats while Belgium has only one top 100 player in Goffin.  The doubles will be important and Croatia has Dodig to play.  I think Goffin may be able to get his two singles wins at home, but that may only set up Coric for Davis Cup glory over Coppejans or Bemelmans.  CRO 3 BEL 2

(It might be a bit optimistic to see 3 live 5th rubbers in these ties, and I've got the visitors winning all three.)

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

Slovenia at Romania (winner plays Spain): No one ranked inside the top 150, I like Romania because they're at home and have a good doubles team (Mergea/Tecau)

Austria at Portugal (winner plays Ukraine): Portugal with an odd surface choice in indoor hard, but Thiem has recently won titles on clay and hard, so it may not matter.  The Portuguese will likely need to work around him to win this tie, but Peya in the mix for Austrian doubles, Sousa and the in form Elias have an uphill fight.

Sweden at Russia (winner plays Netherlands): The Ymer brothers are not playing so there are no Swedes in the top 600, meaning they're heavy underdogs (except for doubles) versus Gabashvili and the in form Kuznetsov.

Israel at Hungary (winner plays Slovakia): The Israelis have two top 200 players and lots of experience. They should be able to take care business on the road.

Americas Zonal Group I

Barbados at Ecuador (winner plays Brazil): King and Lewis give it another go for Barbados against the "how old is he" Lapentti?

Dominican Republic at Chile (winner plays Colombia): Unfortunately my boy Estrella Burgos has pulled out so Chile's relative depth should be able to defeat Hernandez and the Dominicans.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

New Zealand at South Korea (winner plays India): Chung leads the Koreans in what should be a blowout.

China vs Pakistan in Sri Lanka (winner plays Uzbekistan): Qureshi is now the playing captain (alongside Khan) as the Pakistanis play their first Group I tie in 10 years.  The Chinese probably going to be a little much for them.

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

Norway at Lithuania - Berankis is playing
Luxembourg at South Africa - no Muller
Bulgaria at Turkey - Ilhan is there but no Dimitrov
Tunisia at Bosnia & Herzegovina - could be a good tie, no Dzumhur but Basic/Jaziri matchup of 2 top 150 players
Monaco at Latvia - no Gulbis
Belarus at Egypt
Zimbabwe at Finland - Nieminen prolonging retirement for this home tie
Denmark at Georgia - potential Basilashvili/Nielsen matchup

Americas Zonal Group II

Uruguay at Peru - no P.Cuevas
Guatemala at Mexico
Puerto Rico at El Salvador
Paraguay at Venezuela

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

Malaysia at Taiwan - Lu is playing, Taiwan heavy favorites
Kuwait at Philippines
Vietnam at Indonesia
Sri Lanka at Thailand

Europe Zonal Group III

This round robin style group got underway today and the story is that Baghdatis tied Borg today for consecutive Davis Cup wins (granted the Cypriot's have come the lower levels of the Davis Cup echelon, but good for him for still showing up)

Pool A - Malta, Moldova (with Albot), San Marino
Pool B - Albania, Armenia, Ireland, Macedonia
Pool C - Andorra, Cyprus (with Baghdatis), Iceland, Montenegro
Pool D - Estonia, Greece, Kosovo (Davis Cup debut), Liechtenstein

Enjoy the weekend!

Fed Cup and Davis Cup Final Thoughts

I thought I'd write a few words about the upcoming Fed and Davis Cup finals.

Fed Cup: Russia at Czech Republic

There are 3 top 10 players involved in this tie in Sharapova, Kvitova, and Safarova plus Pliskova who was fairly recently in the top 10 and was nominated for the second singles place with Safarova having not played much in recent weeks.

This has the potential to be a closely contested tie but I predict the Czechs will win their 4th title in 5 years.  Kvitova has won her last 2 meetings against Sharapova and both were on indoor hard courts.  I expect both #1s to win their singles on Saturday to set up that pivotal 3rd rubber clash which I think Kvitova will take.  Then it will be up to either Safarova or Pliskova to clinch the tie though you never know what you're going to get with Pavlyuchenkova.  The Russian is in fine form and is the wild card in this tie.  There's even a outside chance she'll take down Kvitova on day 1.  But the Czechs are the home team and we know how well Kvitova plays on indoor hard.  If the tie does get to the doubles with either Sharapova or Pavlyuchenkova winning on Sunday, I like the Czechs in the doubles simply because Makarova hasn't touched a racquet in a real match since the US Open not to mention Safarova/Strycova are formidable in the their own right.  I also can't see Makarova/Vesnina having the mental stamina to win a live 5th rubber on the road.  But then there's also a slight chance, depending on Makarova's health, that Pavlyuchenkova plays with Vesnina...

Lots of possible scenarios for this tie but I'm going with CZE 3 RUS 1

Davis Cup: Great Britain at Belgium

Unlike all the top 25 players running around in Prague, the tie in Ghent is not quite so star-studded will the notable exception of the world no. 2 of course, Murray.  Goffin, also, is up to world no. 16 and has had a nice year but I'm not sure beating Murray is ever going to happen, which means the hosts will need to win the doubles and beat Ward twice.  I've picked against the Brits in every tie this year I believe but I'm not going it here.  Belgium doesn't have the second singles player or doubles team that the USA, France, and Australia all had.  There's a fairly decent chance Ward will beat Darcis or whoever is the Belgian no. 2, and the Murray brothers will be difficult to beat in doubles, after they've already bested Mahut/Tsonga and Groth/Hewitt.  I've give Goffin the win over Ward but otherwise it's a Murray as he joins Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer with Davis Cup titles.  GBR 3 BEL 1

Davis Cup Semis/Playoffs Preview

Davis Cup's big weekend is upon.  Two World Group semis and eight World Group Playoff ties plus a smattering of lower level ties which includes Nadal and Ferrer in action for Spain.  Here's my thoughts:

World Group Semifinals

(Hard to believe these 4 nations are left at this stage of the competition with some of the perennial contenders sitting at home or else trying to keep themselves in the World Group.)

Australia at Great Britain: The doubles rubber looms as the Aussies beating Murray in singles would be a massive upset and one would think the British #2 (unknown as this point, either Edmund, Evans, or Ward) would be a big underdog in a live 5th rubber especially in Hewitt comes off the bench to play.  I like Australia in the upset with the soon to retire Hewitt and Groth winning a tight doubles match against the Murray brothers.  AUS 3 GBR 2

Argentina at Belgium: Goffin has been great in Davis Cup this year and one would think Argentina will need to work around him to reach another final.  But this Argentine team has experience, has guys that play doubles together, and those that punch above their weight in Davis Cup (Berlocq, Delbonis).  But the tie isn't in Argentina nor is it on clay.  But I still think the visitors will find a way and beat Darcis and Bemelmens.  ARG 3 BEL 2

World Group Playoffs

Czech Republic at India: The Czechs go on the road to India without Berdych while India welcomes back Bopanna and Paes.  India often plays above their level, especially at home, in Davis Cup but can Devvarman and Bhambri really threaten Vesely and Rosol?  This is a dangerous tie for the Czechs and India probably wins the doubles despite Stepanek's presence, but I don't think they'll be able to go the distance.  Rosol in a live 5th rubber.  CZE 3 IND 2

Netherlands at Switzerland: Unfortunately for the Dutch, Federer and Wawrinka both plan to show up, and also Haase is out.  Rojer is also not on the team, so I'm not sure how you find a way win a single rubber.  SUI 3 NED 0

Italy at Russia: Is Russia on to something by hosting their visitors in Siberia?  After tripping up Spain's C-team from 2-0, this would arguably be a bigger upset versus Seppi and Fognini.  I'm not seeing in happen this time.  Rublev will be a star in time and he may get an upset here but Italy is too deep and strong.  ITA 3 RUS 1

United States at Uzbekistan: A new look USA travels to the middle of nowhere, or close to it, to face off with Istomin and Dustov on clay.  Sock, Querrey, Johnson, and Young make up the US team. Sock has shown off some clay skills this year and will be tough to beat and Johnson/Querrey made the US Open doubles semis.  It will likely be Querrey and singles vs Istomin on day 1 which is the Uzbeks chance to get on the board.  You can foresee a crazy scenario where Istomin wins both his singles and then Dustov somehow upsets Querrey or Young in a live 5th rubber but I think the Americans will come through here with Sock beating Istomin to clinch the tie.  USA 3 UZB 1

Japan at Colombia: This is a tricky tie to call with Nishikori expected to win his two singles.  Japan also generally puts to together a decent doubles team but Cabal/Farah are good for Colombia.  Giraldo should be able to handle Daniel at home on clay but the wild card is the teenaged Nishioka, and with no Falla the Colombian #2 is Gonzalez, who has little Davis Cup experience.  I like Nishioka to come off the bench to beat Gonzalez in a live 5th rubber.  JPN 3 COL 2

Germany at Dominican Republic: The Dominican Republic is bidding to be just the second Caribbean nation (Cuba in '93) to make the World Group behind their late blooming star Estrella Burgos.  This isn't a gimme for Germany but they should be able to find a way behind Kohlschreiber. They've also got Brown, who grew up not far away in Jamaica.  Estrella will need a heroic effort and help from Hernandez and I'm not going to completely rule that but I think he'll succumb to Kohlschreiber after beating Becker or Brown on day 1.  GER 3 DOM 1

Croatia at Brazil: The visiting Croats were dealt a big blow when Cilic pulled out with injury.  So it's to Coric and Dodig versus Bellucci, Souza, and the star doubles team of Melo/Soares.  Still should be a competitive tie but Brazil at home on clay is going to be tough to beat, and despite some previous Davis Cup heroics Coric is only 18.  BRA 3 CRO 1

Slovakia at Poland: This could be another competitive tie with Klizan (SVK) and Janowicz (POL) the only players in the top 100 here.  But Poland is at home and will have a good doubles team with Kubot/Matkowski so I give them the edge.  To win on the road Klizan will need help from Gombos or Martin.  POL 3 SVK 1

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

Spain at Denmark: (Loser plays Sweden for relegation) I'm curious why Spain's stars decide to show up for this tie but not the many others over the past 3-4 years when they've been the road team versus inferior opponents.  With Nadal, Ferrer, Bautista Agut, and Verdasco versus Nielsen and 3 players ranked outside the top 900, this could be one of the most lopsided ties ever, although with Nielsen there is a small chance Denmark could be competitive in the doubles.  ESP 3 DEN 0

Ukraine at Lithuania: (Loser plays Slovenia for relegation) This tie spells trouble for Ukraine, playing without Dolgopolov and Stakhovsky on the road versus Berankis and his wingman Grigelis.  Marchenko and Molchanov have occasionally featured prominently in Davis Cup and they'll have a chance but I think takes this opportunity and wins all 3 points.  LTU 3 UKR 1

Americas Zonal Group I

Ecuador at Barbados: (Loser plays Uruguay for relegation) Don't know too much about these sides but Barbados is a great story and I think playing at home, King will keep his team in Group I.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

China at Thailand: (Loser relegated)  You'd think China behind Wu and Zheng would cruise to victory.

(Winners promoted in all Group II ties)

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

Belarus at Portugal: At home and with Sousa, Portugal should have no trouble earning promotion

Hungary at Bulgaria: With Dimitrov not in action, Hungary has the highest ranked player in the tie, Fucsovics but I think Bulgaria has more depth and should advance especially at home with Kutrovsky and Kuzmanov.

Americas Zonal Group II

Venezuela at Chile: Hard to see Chile not winning at home with Jarry and Garin and finally getting back to Group I.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

Taiwan vs Pakistan in Turkey: Even without Wu, Taiwan should be able to advance.  But with Davis Cup stalwarts Khan and Qureshi, that's not a given.

Davis Cup Quarterfinals Preview

My day job is really busy right so I don't have time for a full write-up on the upcoming Davis Cup ties, but here's my predictions.  The World Group presents real opportunity for some countries that often have little success in this competition.

World Group Quarterfinals

FRA 3 GBR 2 - This tie probably comes down to the doubles, and I like Mahut plus someone against likely Inglot/J.Murray, plus there's a small chance Murray could lose to Tsonga.

AUS 3 KAZ 1 - Kyrgios should be great at home on grass and Hewitt/Groth will be tough be beat in doubles.  But the Aussies have often disappointed in Davis Cup while the Kazakhs have surprised so an upset isn't out of the question.

ARG 3 SRB 2 - This could be a sneaky good tie, and most the rubbers are tossups but somehow it feels like we'll find a way to a live 5th rubber, where I tip Argentina at home, where Berlocq could come off the bench for more heroics against Krajinovic or possibly Tipsarevic.

BEL 3 CAN 1 - With Raonic and Pospisil both injured, the Belgians won't let this opportunity get away.

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

Promotion ties:

RUS 3 ESP 1 - Russia sends Spain to Siberia (literally - tie is in Vladivostok (smart move) and figuratively) as their young guns Khachanov and Rublev have drawn singles duty vs Robredo and Andujar.  Experience could very well win here but Spain has been awful in C-team road ties.

AUT 3 NED 2 - Melzer off the bench in a live 5th rubber? Why not?

ROU 3 SVK 1

UKR 3 POL 2 - Dolgopolov and Stakhovsky will be tough to beat, even in Poland

Relegation tie:

ISR 3 SLO 1

Americas Zonal Group I

DOM 3 ECU 1 - One more feather in the cap of Victor Estrella, getting Dominican Republic to the World Group...yes you read that right, what a story!

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

UZB 3 KOR 1 - South Korea rising but Istomin too good

IND 3 NZL 1

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

Promotion semis:

TUR def. BLR
POR def. FIN - Nieminen says goodbye to Davis Cup (maybe)
BIH def. HUN
BUL def. LUX - Dimitrov shows up, Muller does not

Relegation ties:

IRL def. RSA - oh how the mighty have fallen (without Anderson of course)
MAR def. MON
ZIM def. MDA - this tie in Zimbabwe and neither Albot nor Dubarenco has showed up
LAT def. MAD - Gulbis not here

Americas Zonal Group II (don't know enough)

Promotion semis:

VEN at ESA
MEX at CHI

Relegation ties:

CRC at PUR
BOL at PER

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II (don't know enough)

Promotion semis:

PHI at TPE
PAK def. INA

Relegation ties:

SRI at LIB
KUW at IRI

Europe Zonal Group III (already underway)

Pool A: CYP (no Baghdatis) vs GRE
Pool B: EST vs MNE
Pool C: MKD vs NOR
Pool D: GEO vs MLT

Amazing Davis Cup Weekend

Four of the eight World Group ties go to live 5th rubbers!  The 2nd longest singles match in history!  Several 2-1 final day comebacks!  Just when you think you'd seen it all with Fabio Fognini he loses to some guy named Nedovyesov to send Kazakhstan to their 4th quarterfinal in 5 years!  What a weekend it was!

5th rubber winners:
-David Goffin (BEL)
-Alexandr Nedovyesov (KAZ)
-Federico Delbonis (ARG)
-Vasek Pospisil (CAN)

-Gerald Melzer (AUT)
-Alejandro Gonzalez (COL)
-Jose Hernandez (DOM)
-Cem Ilkel (TUR)
-Aqeel Khan (PAK)

I don't have time for a full recap right now, but look at the quarterfinal matchups, not exactly a list of the most successful Davis Cup nations of recent times.

-France at Great Britain
-Kazakhstan at Australia
-Serbia at Argentina
-Canada at Belgium

Davis Cup Preview

The tours will convene in Indian Wells next week and then in Miami after that week, but this weekend the men are scattered to the far corners of the globe for Davis Cup ties, with World Group ties on 4 continents.  Here's my preview of the fun to come.

World Group

France at Germany: Last year's finalists have a tricky away tie to begin the '15 campaign and Gasquet has recently pulled out leaving Simon and Monfils available for singles duty against Kohlschreiber (who hasn't been great this year yet) and Becker.  The French are in-form and should present too much firepower unless Kohlschreiber is really able to step up on home soil.  FRA 3 GER 1

United States at Great Britain: This could be one of the better ties of the weekend with Murray (playing in Scotland) and Ward (who beat Querrey in the tie in San Diego last year) versus an out-of-form but experienced Isner and a red-hot but green in Davis Cup Young.  And then there's the possibility of a brothers battle in the doubles (Bryans vs Murrays).  Young isn't one whose track record encourages much faith but I'm going go with the US here because I think he can beat Ward in a live 5th rubber, which seems to be an almost certain eventuality giving 2 wins for Murray, Isner beating Ward, and the Bryans winning the doubles.  USA 3 GBR 2

Australia at Czech Republic: The Czechs are without their stalwarts Berdych and Stepanek for this tie but still have an able team with Rosol and Vesely against Tomic and Hewitt (after Kyrgios had to pull out).  This is one of the more even ties all around with every match somewhat of a toss-up.  Tomic comes in in good form (leading the ATP in quarterfinals in '15) and Hewitt is the Davis Cup veteran so I am going to pick a mild upset here.  Vesely won the title in Auckland but hasn't been good since, and the Aussies will also have Kokkinakis available.  AUS 3 CZE 1

Italy at Kazakhstan: The dreaded trip to central Asia awaits last year's semifinalists, where they'll meet a team that is very difficult to beat at home (just ask Wawrinka) and punches above their weight in Davis Cup.  The visitors have Fognini and Seppi, and remember Bolelli/Fognini won the Aussie Open doubles to go against stalwarts Kukushkin and Golubev.  On paper Italy should roll on easily but strange things happen in Kazakhstan in this tournament.  Still going to pick them though with Italy winning the doubles and Seppi getting it done in the live 5th rubber.  ITA 3 KAZ 2

Brazil at Argentina: Argentine tennis had seemed dead for awhile but was aroused in the South American swing with several players reaching quarterfinals.  Monaco isn't here but Delbonis and Berlocq are, not to mention L.Mayer.  Brazil counters with the in-form Souza and their doubles combo of Melo/Soares while Bellucci has been struggling.  Argentina doesn't lose often at home and that will be a big advantage.  Another tough tie to call, especially if you hand Brazil the doubles, but will go with the Argentines in another 5th rubber.  ARG 3 BRA 2

Croatia at Serbia: The world no. 1 will be in the house and the reigning US Open will not.  Croatia has a team of the future with Coric and Delic but Djokovic, Troicki, and Zimonjic will be too much.  This tie could get ugly, but I expect Coric to at least be competitive in his matches.  SRB 3 CRO 0

Japan at Canada: This tie features the only matchup between two top 10 players as Nishikori and Raonic are slates to battle on Sunday.  The tie comes down that match and the doubles, and Nestor has been suspect in Davis Cup doubles recently.  If Canada can will that, they'll likely have a two chances to close out the tie on Sunday, with Raonic or with Pospisil in his hometown.  Yet another live 5th rubber may be on the cards.  CAN 3 JPN 2

Switzerland at Belgium: So Federer and Wawrinka decided to rest on their laurels and send Marti, Bossel (never heard of him), Laaksonen, and Lammer against Goffin and Darcis.  This is the Belgians time to gloat and get the Swiss back.  I will give the visitors the doubles though.  BEL 3 SUI 1

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

Denmark at Russia (winner to play Spain): The youngster Rublev may make his live singles rubber debut for Russia, who also have Kuznetsov and Donskoy against an outmanned and outgunned Danish side, although that could win the doubles with their no. 1 Nielsen.  RUS 3 DEN 1

Austria at Sweden (winner to play Netherlands): The Swedes are getting better after the loss of Soderling, and somehow managed to stay in Group I, and with the talented teen Ymer and Lindell plus their fine doubles team, have a chance against Haider-Maurer, the Melzer brothers, and Peya.  But it's going to take 2 big upsets to get this done, and I think they'll come up short, though it's possible with J.Melzer out of form (or just getting old).  AUT 3 SWE 2

Slovenia at Slovakia: Klizan and Lacko are at home against Kavcic, Zemlja, and some guys I don't know (no Bedene here).  This should be straightforward for the Slovaks.  SVK 3 SLO 1

Israel at Romania: Israel has said good-bye to one of their double specialists Ram and also Weintraub isn't here so they're relying on Sela to stymie Ungur, Copil, and Mergea/Tecau.  Israel often impresses in Davis Cup and Romania often disappoints but with home court and their good doubles I think they get it done, even beating Sela once to avoid a live 5th rubber.  ROU 3 ISR 1

Lithuania at Poland (winner to play Ukraine): Lithuania makes their Group I debut in Poland and there should be a battle of top 100 players Janowicz and Berankis.  The Poles have the ace in the hole with Matkowski for the doubles and Berankis has little support.  Even if he manages to beat Janowicz I can't see Grigelis beating Kubot in a live 5th rubber on the road.  POL 3 LTU 1

Americas Zonal Group I

Colombia at Uruguay (winner to World Group playoffs): Cuevas is the in-form player and he's at home but Colombia is better team with Cabal/Farah good in the doubles.  It would a heroic effort from Cuevas (one or both as Pablo's brother Martin is the Uruguayan #2).  I think this will get to a live 5th rubber but A.Gonzalez should be able to beat M.Cuevas.  COL 3 URU 2

Dominican Republic at Barbados (winner to play Ecuador): Yes these two tiny nations are in Group I and the winner will have a decent shot at making the playoffs.  King has been very good to get Barbados to this level (they make their Group I debut) with Lewis as his wingman but their up against a guy with a "new career" and his 1st ATP title recently under his belt in Estrella Burgos.  The Dominican #1 should be able to win 3 points to advance the visitors.  DOM 3 BAR 1

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

South Korea at Thailand (winner to play Uzbekistan): South Korea has some talented juniors including Hyeong Chung while the Thais keep getting older.  I like the Koreans here.

China at New Zealand (winner to play India): China wins because their simply better with Zhang and Wu against the Kiwi journeyman Statham and Venus also of course it should be noted the Venus did win a main draw match in Auckland earlier this year.

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

South Africa at Turkey: Ilhan is in form and South Africa can't even seem to draw their B-team so the Turks shouldn't have much trouble advancing as South Africa (which turned down a World Group home tie a few years ago apparently due to lack of funding) continues to plummet down the Davis Cup ranks.

Belarus at Ireland: I expect Belarus to get through based on rankings but know very little about these guys

Morocco at Portugal: Sousa is showing up and it is in Portugal so the home side shouldn't have any trouble progressing

Finland at Monaco: Niemenen and Kontinen will both be in Monte Carlo to see the Finns through versus Balleret (who often features as a Monte Carlo wild card but is now ranked outside the top 350)

Bosnia & Herzegovina at Zimbabwe: An (non-North) African nation getting a home tie is a big story and Zimbabwe has a guy in Garanganga who often features in ATP qualifying events but Bosnia will be too big a hurdle to overcome with top 100 player Dzumhur and top 200 player Basic.

Moldova at Hungary: Moldova had their chance to earn promotion last year but they lost to Denmark, and now there is no Dubarenco alongside Albot.  Hungary has Fucsovics and home court so I believe they'll find a way to victory.

Madagascar at Luxembourg: To see a country like Madagascar at this stage of the competition is pretty amazing.  They'd probably even have a fair chance at winning over Luxembourg except that world no. 34 Muller is showing up.

Bulgaria at Latvia: I was salivating at a possible Dimitrov/Gulbis rubber when I saw this pairing but then alas, neither are playing.  That really gives me little idea as to what to expect except that Bulgaria's guys are way higher ranked.

Americas Zonal Group II

Costa Rica at Venezuela

El Salvador at Puerto Rico

Bolivia at Mexico

Peru at Chile: With 4 players in the top 250, Chile's run back to Group I begins now with Peru not having a player in the top 400

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

Lebanon at Taiwan: Lu is scheduled to make a rare Davis Cup appearance but Taiwan should be nowhere near this low with all their top 200 players.

Sri Lanka at Philippines

Iran at Indonesia

Kuwait vs Pakistan in Sri Lanka: Qureshi back out singles duty in Davis Cup action

Enjoy the play this weekend, and also marvel in Spain not being in action because of their relegation and subsequent bye.  I believe their success in Davis Cup was due not only to their top players but also managing to draw many home ties.  Now that has flipped and they were making road ties and it caught up to them especially when their top players refused to play.

Davis Cup Preview

Tomorrow the Davis Cup final begins, pitting Switzerland with their two top-5 players against the depth of France on a clay court in Lille in front of 27,000 fans.  While I view the Swiss as the favorites, there is plenty of uncertainly in the back injury of Federer and the widely varying form throughout the year of the other singles players Wawrinka, Tsonga, and Monfils.  The doubles rubber also looms large with a potential matchup between 2008 Olympic gold medalists Federer/Wawrinka and 2012 Olympic bronze medalists Benneteau/Gasquet.  But given Federer's back injury I doubt we will see him play the doubles especially as Federer/Wawrinka have been beatable their last few Davis Cup matches together.

Tsonga has beaten Federer this year and Monfils held match point against him at the US Open and we are unsure of Federer's injury and what if any affect it will have on him.  I think Wawrinka is the key player in this tie.  If he plays like he did at the Aussie Open or Monte Carlo or even last week in London, Switzerland will win this tie.  But if he plays like he did for the majority of the season, the Swiss likely don't win.  We also don't really know what we're going to get from Tsonga or Monfils.  Will the home crowd motivate them or will it put too much pressure on them?

I'm going to see Switzerland wins this match in 5 rubbers with Wawrinka coming through against Monfils or Gasquet in the live 5th rubber, but given the uncertainty I mentioned it is hard to be too confident about anything in this tie.  We may have a wild one with lots of ebbs and flows.

Davis Cup Loose Ends

Davis Cup tied up some loose ends this weekend with Sweden winning at Latvia 3-2 and New Zealand defeating Taiwan at home 4-1 to keep those nations in Group I and relegating the losers to Group II.  Elias Ymer (SWE) won the live 5th rubber for the Swedes over J.Podzus and each Swede won one point.  Gulbis did not participate but M.Podzus (they are twins) won his 2 singles for Latvia.  New Zealand wiped out Taiwan and all 4 players won a live rubber in the sweep.

Davis Cup Recap: Federer One Step Away From Filling a Hole

So in spite of what I just posted about, here comes a Davis Cup recap.  I had some time tonight so here it goes, since I do enjoy Davis Cup (and Fed Cup) and when Spain loses on clay to Brazil and is relegated, that's certainly worth posting about.  Also Barbados beat Mexico so next year both Barbados and Dominican Republic will be in Group I.  I know most don't care about the lower levels, but I am intrigued by it and what a story.  Congrats to world no. 319 Darian King and unranked Haydn Lewis for putting an island nation of less than 300,000 among countries like Colombia and Ecuador, and 2 wins from a World Group Playoff spot in 2015.

And now, back to the headlines.  Our 2014 final will feature several top players as Switzerland travels to France.  Can Federer finally fill the spot missing in his trophy case?  Or France thwart him, reaching the final for the 2nd time in 5 years?

World Group Semis

FRA 4 CZE 1 - This tie was likely over when Berdych was upset Gasquet.  But then Berdych/Stepanek suffered just their 2nd Davis Cup doubles loss ever (the other was in the '09 final the Lopez/Verdasco) to Gasquet/Tsonga and the hosts punched their ticket to the final inside Philippe Chatrier.

SUI 3 ITA 2 - Federer and Wawrinka looked strong on day 1 but the Italians Fognini/Bolelli fought back to beat Wawrinka/Chiudinelli in the doubles.  But Federer wasn't letting this opportunity get away, defeating Fognini in straight sets to clinch

World Group Playoffs

SRB 3 IND 2 - Serbia was cruising up 2 sets to love in the doubles after getting wins from both Lajovic and Krajinovic on day 1, but India came back, Bopanna/Paes won the doubles 8-6 in the 5th and Devvarman upset Lajovic to force a 3rd rubber.  Then Serbia found a new Davis Cup hero, 22-yr-old Filip Krajinovic clinched the tie over Bhambri to avoid suffering the same fate at Spain.

ESP 3 BRA 1 - Speaking of Spain, they were cruising, winning the first 5 sets (Bautista Agut dropping just 4 games vs Dutra Silva).  But Bellucci came from 2 sets down to beat Andujar and Brazil won the doubles with Melo/Soares.  Still they could be confident with Bautista Agut, right?  Nope, Bellucci was Brazil's hero, taking down a player ranked 70 places above him.  I realize Spain was without Nadal, Ferrer, and others, but they still should have easily won this tie.  It's their first loss on clay in 15 years!

ARG 3 ISR 2 - The final Davis Cup tie for Andy Ram started well (but a shame with Palestinian conflict it couldn't be at home) with Israel getting a win from Sela and winning the doubles.  But then Sela laid an egg against L.Mayer (grant it he's the world no. 25) and with 5th rubber stud Weintraub out with injury, poor Botzer couldn't win a live 5th rubber vs the victorious Carlos Berlocq.

CAN 3 COL 2 - Any chance the visitor's thought they had vanished win Giraldo fell to Pospisil.  They salvaged some pride with Cabal/Farah bested Nestor/Pospisil in the doubles but that only set up the Canadian hero Raonic to clinch the tie.

USA 5 SVK 0 - The USA just had too much firepower for Slovakia, winning all 9 live sets.  Maybe this can rejuvenate Querrey's game.  The Bryans lost just 4 games in the doubles.

AUS 5 UZB 0 - I thought Uzbekistan might put up a bit of fight with Istomin and Dustov, who just managed to qualify for the US Open.  But the Aussies with Kyrgios, Hewitt, and Hewitt/Guccione didn't lose a single set, even in the dead rubbers.

CRO 3 NED 2 - Cilic didn't play singles on day 1 but 21-yr-old Delic upset Sijsling to start the visitors strong.  Haase handled Coric and then Cilic/Draganja won doubles even against Rojer.  Croatia still sent Delic out to clinch the tie and he nearly did, falling to Haase in 5 sets.  Then they quit playing around and summoned Cilic to despatch de Bakker in the live 5th rubber.  With Cilic in top form and 2 rising young talents in Delic and Coric, we may be hearing more from this Croatian team.

BEL 3 UKR 2 - Not being able to play at home because of the Russian invasion (let's call it what it is), Ukraine really needed the doubles to work around the inform Goffin.  They didn't get it, and they lost.  Stakhovsky won one singles rubber but then looked surprising inept against Goffin as the Belgian no. 1 clinched.

2015 World Group teams:  Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Serbia, Switzerland, United States

Teams promoted from zones (last year in World Group):  BRA (2013), CRO (2013)

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

RUS 4 POR 1 - Portugal surprisingly punchless despite having the highest ranked player in the tie (Sousa) versus relative Davis Cup newbies in Kuznetsov and Donskoy.

ROU 3 SWE 1 - Sweden struggling mightily in Davis Cup since Soderling got injured.  They did get one win here from 22-yr-old Lindell.  Copil and Ungur did singles duty for Romania.

AUT 4 LAT 1 - Gulbis only played the doubles, and that was the only rubber won by Latvia.  Melzer got 2 singles victories for the Austrians.

Portugal is relegated to Group II, making an immediate return there after a 2013 promotion.  Latvia travels to Sweden to determine the other relegated country.  The outcome likely depends on whether Gulbis plays.

Americas Zonal Group I

URU 4 VEN 1 - Venezuela had little resistance to the Cuevas brothers as the in form Pablo returned to Davis Cup action after years of being bothered by injury.

Venezuela is relegated to Group II, making an immediate return there after a 2013 promotion.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

KOR 3 TPE 1 - Taiwan can't get Lu and Wang to show up so they lose all their singles matches to South Korea.  The Korean no. 1 is Hyeon Chung, an 18-yr-old ranked inside the top 200.

Taiwan will play at New Zealand in October with the loser being relegated to Group II.

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

LTU 3 BIH 2 - Berankis won 3 points to lead Lithuania, defeating Dzumhur in straight sets in the clincher.

DEN 3 MDA 2 - Moldova was heavily favored here, though on the road, with top 200 player Albot, and top 400 Dubarenco, who outranked all the Danes.  But the latter lost both his singles matches and the doubles, as world no. 758 Martin Pedersen won the live 5th rubber, 7-5 in the 5th.

Denmark and Lithuania are promoted to Group I.  The Danes make an immediate return after being relegated in 2013 but Lithuania will make their Group I debut.

Americas Zonal Group II

BAR 3 MEX 2 - I discussed this result above.  King was the highest ranked player in the tie but after losing the doubles he couldn't do it all himself.  Haydn Lewis won the live 5th rubber in 4 sets over 19-yr-old world no. 830 Gomez.

Barbados is promoted to Group I and will make their Group I debut.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

THA 4 PAK 1 - An easy sweep for Thailand against the Pakistani, whose players Qureshi (known for doubles) and Khan, were both born in 1980.

Thailand is promoted to Group I.  The Thais haven't been there since 2009.

Davis Cup Recap: What a Wild Weekend!

What an amazing weekend for tennis with the Davis Cup quarterfinals as well as some entertaining zone group ties.  Three of the four quarterfinals went live into Sunday and in each the country down 2-1 won the two reverse singles rubbers and advanced to the semis.  There were some amazing upsets as France fell behind 2-0, Wawrinka lost, and a 17-yr-old stunned the world no. 21 in a zone group tie.  Read more below.

World Group Quarterfinals

CZE 5 JPN 0 - The only quarterfinal that failed to have a live 5th rubber, this one was still not without drama.  The Japanese B-team acquitted itself well with Ito losing a near 4 hour match to Stepanek and then 21-yr-old Daniel extending Rosol to 5 sets.  But almost certainly doesn't count in Davis Cup tennis and the Czechs won the doubles to clinch the tie.

FRA 3 GER 2 - The Germans shocked the world with their B-team on day 1, winning both singles matches.  Kamke upset Benneteau but then Gojowczyk took down Tsonga 8-6 in the 5th to put Germany up 2-0.  But France didn't panic, Benneteau/Llodra won the doubles like they've oh so many times, Tsonga beat Kamke in straight sets and then Monfils came off the bench to win the 5th rubber over Gojowczyk.

ITA 3 GBR 2 - Murray and Fognini were each victorious to begin the tie and Fleming/Murray won the critical doubles and you thought Murray could clinch.  But Fognini won perhaps his greatest victory, taking down Murray in straight sets, setting up Seppi to win a live 5th rubber over Ward.

SUI 3 KAZ 2 - The great Roger Federer did something we thought he'd never (even have the opportunity to) do: win a live 5th rubber.  It came about because Golubev upset Wawrinka to open the tie.  Federer restored order by beating Kukushkin in straight sets.  Then the Olympic gold medalists lost to Golubev/Nedovyesov in doubles and the visitors had the lead.  But despite all the success in the tie, the Kazakhs would still need to beat a top 5 singles player to win.  Wawrinka dropped the first set to Kukushkin but didn't look back from the there, and the Swiss survived.

World Group Semifinals: Czech Republic at France, Italy at Switzerland

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I
Winners of Group I ties in all zones advance to World Group Playoffs

CRO 3 POL 1 - Janowicz playing at home for a spot in the playoffs for the first time in his career and he laid an egg.  Cilic won the opening rubber but then 17-yr-old junior Aussie Open champ Coric stunned Janowicz in front of his home crowd, 6-4 in the 5th.  The top flight doubles team of Fyrstenburg/Matkowski kept Poland alive, but only barely, surviving in 5 sets against unknown Draganja/Pavic to give Janowicz another chance.  But Cilic beat him in 5 sets and Croatia will seek an immediate return to the World Group.

ISR 3 SLO 1 - Each Israeli team member picked up a point for the visitors.  Weintraub got the tie off on the right foot, upsetting Kavcic, but then Sela lost to Rola.  Erlich/Ram came through in the doubles and Sela clinched against Zemlja in the 4th rubber.

UKR 4 SWE 1 - The score doesn't really show how epic this tie was. Stakhovsky survived the first singles match against doubles specialist Brunstrom 13-11 in the 5th and Smirov won easily over the Swedish no. 1 Eriksson.  The Swedes won the doubles in epic fashion, 10-8 in the 5th, and Brunstrom went deep on back-to-back day.  But again the hosts got nothing from Eriksson as Stakhovsky beat him straight sets to return Ukraine to the playoffs.

SVK 4 AUT 1 - This was a sweep where nothing went right for the Austrians.  The tie began with unknown Gombos upsetting rising star Thiem and then Lacko beat Haider-Maurer in 5 sets to put Slovakia up 2-0.  They clinched in the doubles with Klizan/Mertinak.

Americas Zonal Group I

BRA 3 ECU 1 - Two wins for Dutra Silva, who is filling the no. 1 role this weekend for Brazil with Bellucci absent.  One win for the standout doubles team of Melo/Soares.  The only tie Brazil lost was a retirement by Clezar.

COL 4 DOM 1 - It was a long shot at best for the Dominicans but they laid it on the line.  Both Estrella and Hernandez lost 6-2 in the 5th against Falla and Giraldo, and then the rising doubles team of Cabal/Farah clinched the tie for the hosts against the Dominican duo.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

UZB 3 CHN 2 - China got a fantastic effort from Wu, who won both points, but the Uzbeks got perhaps a better won from Dustov who may have overshadowed Istomin.  The latter survived in 5 sets over Zhang, but Wu beat Dustov 9-7 in the 5th in end the first day all square.  The doubles turned out to be big, and Dustov/Istomin beat Gong/Li.  Istomin had a chance to do what he usually does, clinch in the 4th rubber, winning 3 points, but Wu beat him to send the match to a 5th rubber.  And that's where Dustov became the hero, besting Zhang in 5 sets.

IND 3 KOR 1 - Turned out Bhambri didn't play for India but Devvarman and the doubles (Bopanna/Myneni) were all the needed against South Korea.

World Group Playoff Teams (draw Wednesday): Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Croatia, India, Israel, Netherlands, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Ukraine, United States, Uzbekistan

-Several teams coming down from the World Group to play haven't been in the playoffs for awhile: ARG (2001!), SRB (2009), USA (2010)
-And likewise some of the teams coming up from the zones, most have been the recently but it's been since 2008 for SVK

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

Semifinals

LTU 3 RSA 2 - The two man team of Berankis and Grigelis beat South Africa's patched together  team, winning both singles matches on Sunday to advance.  There will be no immediate return to Group I for South Africa.  Berankis beat J.Andersen and de Voest (who beat Grigelis on day 1) while Grigelis clinched over Roelfse in the 5th rubber.  The South Africans won the doubles behind J.Andersen/Klaasen.

BIH 3 FIN 2 - The story of this tie was world no. 221, 22-yr-old Mirza Basic, who stunned Nieminen in 5 sets on day 1 to put Bosnia up 2-0 after Dzumhur won the opening match.  Nieminen charged back, winning in the doubles and over Dzumhur to tie the tie.  But that only allowed more heroics for Basic, who came from 2 sets down to beat Paukku in the 5th rubber.

MDA 4 BLR 1 - The only tie Belarus won was with Mirnyi in the doubles.  Albot and Dubarenco march on.

FIN 5 DEN 0 - Without Muller, the Luxembourghers had little hope, especially with Nielsen present for the Danes.

Promotion ties: Lithuania at Bosnia & Herzegovina, Moldova at Denmark

Relegation ties

MON 5 NOR 0

BUL 4 GRE 1 - A sweep for Dimitrov and Kutrovsky, who each won 2 points.  Kudos to Dimitrov for showing up at such a low level tie

IRL 3 EGY 2 - McGee won both his singles for Ireland, with a mild upset over Safwat in the 4th rubber.

MAR 4 CYP 1 - An enigmatic performance by 18-yr-old Kyratzis for Cyprus.  First he beat Khaddari, a player ranked 1000 places above him to open the tie.  But then was triple bageled by Ouahab as the Moroccan clinched the tie in the 4th rubber.

Egypt, Greece, and Norway make an immediate return to Group III.  Morocco was able to fend off the return trip, instead relegating Cyprus, who thanks to occasional appearance by Baghdatis, hasn't played in Group III since 2005.

Americas Zonal Group II

Semifinals

BAR 4 ESA 1 - El Salvador was hurt by an injury to M.Arevalo, which results in 3 points for top 400 player King of Barbados.  The island nation continues their unprecedented run and is now only one win from Group I.

MEX 3 PER 2 - Reyes-Varela won 3 points for the hosts, teaming with Gonzalez in the doubles, and clinching in the 4th rubber.

Promotion tie: Mexico at Barbados

Relegation ties

CHI 5 PAR 0 - Chile averts further Davis Cup disaster in a big way as each team member (Lama, Garin, Aguilar/Capdeville) wins a live rubber.

BOL 3 GUA 1 - Dellien wins 3 points for the hosts.

Paraguay makes an immediate return to Group III, but Bolivia avoided the same fate, instead sending down Guatemala, who will play at Group III after two years in Group II.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

Semifinals

PAK 3 PHI 2 - The Pakistanis came back from 2-0 down, getting a win from tour doubles specialist Qureshi in the 5th rubber.  He went 2-0 in the tie, also winning the doubles but didn't play singles on day 1.

THA 4 KUW 1 - The tie began with a triple bagel by 18-yr-old world no. 817 Isarow and concluded with him clinching for his 3rd point.

Promotion tie: Pakistan at Thailand

Relegation ties

SRI 3 VIE 2 - Godamanna won 3 points for the visitors including the live 5th rubber in a tie where each match was straight sets.

HKG at INA - Postponed

Vietnam makes an immediate return to Group III.  Hong Kong will strive to avoid the same fate in 3 weeks.

Live 5th Rubbers
-World Group QF: Gael Monfils (FRA) def. Peter Gojowcyzk (GER) 6-1 7-6 6-2
-World Group QF: Andreas Seppi (ITA) def. James Ward (GBR) 6-4 6-3 6-4
-World Group QF: Roger Federer (SUI) def. Andrey Golubev (KAZ) 7-6 6-2 6-3
-Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I promotion round: Farrukh Dustov (UZB) def. Ze Zhang (CHN) 6-2 1-6 6-3 6-7 6-3
-Europe/Africa Zonal Group II semifinals: Mirza Basic (BIH) def. Juho Paukku (FIN) 3-6 4-6 6-3 7-5 6-4
-Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II semifinals: Aisam Qureshi (PAK) def. Patrick-John Tierro (PHI) 6-2 6-3 3-6 6-4
-Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II relegation round: Harshana Godamanna (SRI) def. Minh-Quan Do (VIE) 6-3 7-5 6-0

Davis Cup Quarterfinals Preview

Indian Wells and Miami are in the rear view mirror and the 2014 Davis Cup Quarterfinals have arrived.  There is an interesting slate of quarterfinal matchups with many of the usual suspects have lost in the first round - Spain, Serbia, USA, Argentina.  So those nations won't be in action at all this weekend and I'll focus on those that will be, plus the huge slate of action in the zones.

World Group Quarterfinals

Czech Republic at Japan: When Berdych declared he was going to skip this tie, it looked like it might be able to go either.  But then Nishikori pulled out injured and Soeda is sick and won't play at least on Friday, leaving Ito and Daniel as the two singles players for Japan.  So now Rosol and Stepanek are looking like strong favorites.  It is hard to imagine the 2-time defending champions not coming through.  CZE 3 JPN 1

Germany at France: This was shaping up to be an interesting between the two European neighbors until the entire German squad got hurt.  Haas, Kohlschreiber, and Mayer have all missed time recently with injuries so it is left to Kamke, Struff, and Gojowczyk to carry the German flag.  Gasquet is also missing but France has far more depth with Tsonga, Benneteau, Monfils, and Llodra on indoor hard in France, so the only question is if the visitors can win a point.  Doubtful.  FRA 3 GER 0

Great Britain at Italy: The classic one man team versus a squad of decent players.  Murray got help from Ward against the US but this battle on clay will be on the host's best surface.  This is a tough ask for the British, with the form of Murray not great at the moment.  Fognini will be licking his chops with a chance to upset him in the 4th rubber but the Brits will need a doubles win for that match to even matter with Seppi awaiting either Evans or Ward in the 5th.  The tie really could go a number of ways but Murray has been mediocre recently, it's away on clay, and while Evans and Ward have come up big in the past in Davis Cup, this may be a bridge too far.  ITA 3 GBR 1

Kazakhstan at Switzerland: The Swiss now have two top 4 players and have the minds of winning this whole cup.  A loss here might be the biggest upset ever.  Kukushkin, Golubev, and now Nedovyesov come into this tie in good form, but the gulf between them and Federer and Wawrinka is very large.  SUI 3 KAZ 0

All Group I ties are promotion ties with the winner advancing to the World Group Playoffs.

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

Croatia at Poland: Cilic returns to Davis Cup action after Croatia fell from the World Group during his suspension, but neither Dodig nor Karlovic are alongside.  Instead it's promising teenager Coric alongside one of the tour's hottest players.  Janowicz is also back for Poland after missing their playoff tie last fall with an injury.  The Poles have the good doubles and the home court so Croatia will need a heroic effort from Cilic.  I think he'll beat Janowicz but won't win the doubles, so Przysiezny can clinch against Coric in the 5th rubber.  POL 3 CRO 2

Israel at Slovenia:  The team that is better on paper against the team with Davis Cup pedigree. Sela, Weintraub, and Erlich/Ram versus Kavcic, Rola, and Zemlja.  The Slovenes are at home but Sela is playing decent on tour and Weintraub in a 5th rubber is the ace in the hole.  The Israelis do occasionally struggle on the road but I don't think Slovenia has enough punch to knock them out.  ISR 3 SLO 2

Ukraine at Sweden:  Sweden without Soderling is a sad story, but somehow they have managed to stay to Group I with some clutch play by Eriksson in the past.  Ukraine has Stakhovsky and Bubka are their top two players so they are vulnerable but I can't see the Swedes getting two singles wins.  UKR 3 SWE 2

Austria at Slovakia:  Melzer is still out injured so Austria's hopes rest mostly on the young shoulders of Thiem.  Its still an OK team with Haider-Maurer and Peya, but the Slovaks are at home with Klizan and Lacko.  This could be another interesting tie and the doubles could be key.  I think Austria will find a way to make it a live 5th rubber and Haider-Maurer will find a way to lose that.  SVK 3 AUT 2

Americas Zonal Group I

Brazil at Ecuador: Brazil is without Bellucci but still has a superior team.  Road tests are often tricky at this level of the competition but with Melo/Soares on doubles and two top 200 players in Dutra Silva and Clezar, the visitors should still advance.  BRA 3 ECU 1

Dominican Republic at Colombia: Dominican tennis is quite the story and will the fairy tale continue for Estrella and Hernandez?  A win would mean a playoff berth and a possibility of getting Spain or Serbia to travel to the island of Hispaniola.  It's unlikely though as Giraldo, Falla, and Cabal/Farah (now a good tour doubles team) have the experience, skill, home court, and generally play well in Davis Cup.  COL 3 DOM 1

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

Uzbekistan at China: Chinese tennis has been getting better and the Uzbeks rely heavily on their workhorse Istomin with Dustov an OK compliment.  I give Wu and Zhang a fighting chance but even at home I think they'll come up short.  UZB 3 CHN 1

India at South Korea: India seems to have straightened some of their internal strife as Devvarman, Bhambri, and Bopanna are on the team.  Korea has some decent juniors coming up but likely no one to bother the top two Indians.  IND 3 KOR 0

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

Group semifinals:

Lithuania at South Africa: South Africa has been having trouble getting their top players to come so this is Berankis vs de Voest and I like the Lithuanian.  However, if South Africa can win the doubles it could be Grigelis vs Klaasen or some unknown South African.  Tough to call but I'll go with hosts in a mild upset.  RSA 3 LTU 2

Bosnia & Herzegovina at Finland: Bosnia is a team on the rise with Basic, Dzumhur, and Sektic but they're on the road against Nieminen, who is a Davis Cup warrior.  I think he'll win 3 points to give the Finns the win.  FIN 3 BIH 1

Belarus at Moldova: Moldova has some decent players for this level and they're at home vs Ignatik and also Mirnyi.  This could go live to the 5th rubber but I think Moldova will win.  MDA 3 BLR 2

Luxembourg at Denmark: Muller is not playing, Nielsen is and Denmark is at home, so I'll take the Danes.  DEN 3 LUX 1

Relegation ties - losers to Group III in 2015

Monaco at Norway: With Balleret I think Monaco will avoid relegation against an unknown Norweigan squad.

Bulgaria at Greece: Dimitrov is playing so Bulgaria should cruise.

Egypt at Ireland: Ireland is at home, McGee is playing.  Egypt could make this interesting but I favor the Irish.

Cyprus at Morocco: Baghdatis is not playing so this may finally be the year that Cyprus gets dumped down to Group III.  Morocco has some guys you'll occasionally see in Casablanca, Dubai, or Doha.

Americas Zonal Group II

I don't really know enough about these players and teams to offer much in the way predictions for the remaining ties.

Group semifinals:

El Salvador at Barbados: Barbados another great Caribbean story, for such a tiny nation even getting to this stage.  King and Lewis will have a fighting chance against the Arevalo brothers.

Peru at Mexico

Relegation ties - losers to Group III in 2015

Paraguay at Chile: The fall of Chile from the World Group is well documented and they are coming off back-to-back road losses to Dominican Republic and Barbados.  A loss here to Paraguay and relegation to Group III would have to utterly humiliating.  But they are at home and have some veterans so they ought to be able to win.

Guatemala at Bolivia

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

Group semifinals:

Pakistan at Philippines: This tie was moved from Pakistan because the ITF doesn't feel it is safe there.

Kuwait at Thailand

Relegation ties - losers to Group III in 2015

Sri Lanka at Vietnam

Hong Kong at Indonesia: This tie has been postponed for 3 weeks.

So there you go, enjoy and I'll be back Sunday or Monday to wrap it all up.

Davis Cup Recap: Several Top Teams Defeated

This past weekend of Davis Cup saw several of the competition's big names defeated, which looks surprising on the surface, but when you examine the rosters, it really isn't very surprising.  In all, only 3 of the seeded teams advanced while home teams went 5-3.  Spain, Serbia, the USA, Argentina, and '13 semifinalist Canada all went down, and here's what happened.

World Group

CZE 3 NED 2 - Berdych won 3 points for the Czechs after Haase had put the Dutch on the board first with a win over Stepanek.  Berdych/Stepanek beat Haase/Rojer in 4 sets in the doubles to set up Berdych's win over de Bakker, who curiously stepped in for Haase in the 4th rubber.

JPN 4 CAN 1 - Both Raonic and Pospisil were injured leaving Canada with little hope.  But then Dancevic stepped up against Soeda to give the visitor's hope.  However, Nishikori would win 3 points for Japan including partnering Uchiyama to beat Dancevic/Nestor in the doubles, a rare loss for Nestor which spoiled any hope for an upset.  Japan is through to their first ever quarterfinals.

GER 4 ESP 1 - Spain struggles in road ties because it is played on hard courts and their top players don't show up.  Kohlschreiber began by beating Bautista-Agut then Mayer fended off Lopez in 5 sets to set up Haas/Kohlschreiber clinching in the doubles over a good team in Marrero/Verdasco.  For a second straight, Spain will play in the playoffs.  They rode a multitude of home ties to there titles, so now they have been playing several road ties.

FRA 5 AUS 0 - France is a legitimate contender this year, and it showed with a seemingly easy win over Australia, playing without Tomic.  Gasquet and Tsonga did all the live damage, knocking off Kyrgios, Hewitt, and Guccione/Hewitt.

GBR 3 USA 1 - A depressing tie for American tennis fans.  First Isner had to pull out with his ankle injury and then Querrey blew a 2-1 and break advantage to Ward.  Ward upset Querrey and the Brits led 2-0 following substitute Young only getting 6 games off Murray.  The Bryans ended their losing streak in doubles but then Murray beat Querrey in 4 sets to send the British to the quarters.

ITA 3 ARG 1 - Fognini was the hero for the Italians on the road, winning 3 points.  Berlocq began well for the hosts, beating Seppi, but then Fognini took down Monaco, teamed with Bolelli to beat Schwank/Zeballos, and then clinched against Berlocq.

KAZ 3 BEL 2 - This was the only tie to go live into the 5th rubber.  The Kazakhs went up 2-0 after day 1 when Golubev def. Goffin 12-10 in the 5th.  But the Belgians came back with a win in doubles then Goffin fended off Kukushkin's clinching effort in 5 sets.  That only set up Golubev in clinch the tie in a live 5th rubber, defeating Bemelmens who had played all 3 days, with the loss of only 6 games.

SUI 3 SRB 2 - This was a sweep after Federer and Wawrinka each won singles match on day 1.  They then watched from sidelines as Chiudinelli/Lammer clinched over Krajinovic/Zimonjic.  Each Swiss won one point, and this could be a magical Davis Cup season for them with 2 top 10 players.

World Group Quarterfinals:  Czech Republic at Japan, Germany at France, Great Britain at Italy, Kazakhstan at Switzerland

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

POL 3 RUS 2 - Poland showed off its 1-2 punch in this tie with Janowicz and Fyrstenberg/Matkowski.  Janowicz beat the youngster Khachanov to begin the tie and then clinched in straight sets over Tursunov, who won the only live point for Russia.  The Polish doubles duo beat Khachanov/Kravchuk to set up Janowicz.

SLO 3 POR 2 - Kavcic won 3 points for the host Slovenes including the clincher in the 4th rubber.  J.Sousa had gotten the visitors off to good start by winning the opening rubber.

UKR 3 ROU 1 - Turns out Stakhovsky to did show up for this tie and he won both his singles including the clincher over Hanescu in 4 sets.  Marchenko put the Ukrainians up 2-0 by beating Hanescu on day 1 but Copil/Tecau kept the tie live in the doubles.

SVK 5 LAT 0 - Without Gulbis, Latvia had little hope here.  They did show some mettle though with Juska falling 8-6 in the 5th to Klizan.  Each Slovakian - Lacko, Klizan, and Martin/Mertinak - won a live rubber.

Promotional Round:  Croatia at Poland (blockbuster!), Israel at Slovenia, Ukraine at Sweden, Austria at Slovakia

Americas Zonal Group I

ECU 3 VEN 2  - Ecuador pulls an upset at home by beating the top player in the tie, Venezuelan Souto twice.  Gomez clinched the tie in the 4th rubber by beating Souto with the loss of just 3 games

DOM 4 URU 0  - The good story of 33-yr-old Estrella continues with a beat down of Uruguay.  This was the first ever Group I win for the Dominicans.

Promotional Round:  Brazil at Ecuador, Dominican Republic at Colombia

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

CHN 3 NZL 1 - I covered this earlier, but a spirited Kiwi effort came up short as a combined 14 sets were played in 3 live singles rubbers.

IND 5 TPE 0 - With the rise of Bhambri, India now has 2 top 200 singles players to go along with their doubles prowess.  Each team member won a live rubber, the highlight was Devvarman def. Chen 9-7 in the 5th.

Promotional Round:  Uzbekistan at China, India at South Korea

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

RSA 3 MON 2 - The 5th rubber was dead, but this turned out be a highly competitive tie with 3 5-setters.  Arneodo upset de Voest, ranked 350 places above him in 5 sets to open the tie.  But then Scholtz returned the favor, taking down Balleret, who is ranked nearly 700 places above him, also in 5 sets.  The South Africans won the doubles in 5 sets.  Then in the match that should have been most competitive, de Voest clinched over Balleret in straights.  Each South African scored a point.

LTU 5 NOR 0 - Berankis and Grigelis each won singles then teamed up to win the doubles.

FIN 3 BUL 2 - Nieminen won 3 points for the hosts against a Bulgarian team playing without Dimitrov.  However, the world no. 472 Kutrovsky gave Nieminen a run, falling in 5 sets.

BIH 3 GRE 1 - Bosnia is a team with some potential moving forward, but they were nearly halted here when Dzumhur was upset on day 1 by 19-yr-old world no. 691 Kalovelonis.  Bosnia won the doubles, then Dzumhur redeemed himself but only barely, clinching in 5 sets over Jakupovic.

BLR 4 IRL 1 - Belarus swept Ireland away, and surprisingly the closest rubber with Bury/Mirnyi def. Cluskey/O'Hare 6-7 7-6 5-7 7-6 6-2

MDA 4 EGY 1 - Albot reeled off 3 straight points for Moldova after Safwat beat Dubarenco in the opening rubber

LUX 3 MAR 2 - Muller won 3 points for the visiting Luxembourghers, and did it without dropping a set

DEN 4 CYP 1 - Cyprus just can't do much without Baghdatis

Group semifinals:  Lithuania at South Africa, Bosnia & Herzegovina at Finland, Belarus at Moldova, Luxembourg at Denmark.  All the seeded advanced.

Relegation round:  Monaco at Norway, Bulgaria at Greece, Egypt at Ireland, Cyprus at Morocco

Americas Zonal Group II

BAR 3 CHI 2 - Well it happened, and in just 4 rubbers too.  World no. 459 King won 3 points for Barbados and Chilean tennis reaches a new low.  Lama did win the opening rubber.  Chile was in the World Group quarters in '10 and now lost a tie in Group II for the first time ever.

ESA 3 PAR 2 - The Arevalo brothers swept the Paraguayans before their backups were beaten on a dead Sunday.

PER 3 BOL 2 - Finally a live 5th rubber to discuss, and in 5 sets no less.  Peru was down 2-1 after day 2 but came back with wins by Echazu and then Galdos in 5th rubber, defeating F.Zeballos 6-1 in the 5th.

MEX 3 GUA 2 - And here's another live 5th rubber.  Diaz-Figueroa won both his singles for Guatemala but lost in the doubles.  That prolonged the tie and allowed Gallardo-Valles to defeat Ramazzini in the 5th rubber.  Amazingly, Gallardo-Valles lost only 2 games in the decider.

Group semifinals:  El Salvador at Barbados, Peru at Mexico.

Relegation round:  Paraguay at Chile, Bolivia at Guatemala

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

PHI 3 SRI 1 - Huey and Gonzales each won 2 points

KUW 3 INA 2 - Kuwait won the first 3 singles matches to clinch in a fairly big upset, but Indonesia was playing without Rungkat.

The PAK/VIE and HKG/THA ties were postponed due to the Chinese new year.

And that's that, the opening weekend of Davis Cup in the books, and plenty more action to be played out later in the year with several good story lines even below the World Group.

Davis Cup Preview

The 2014 Davis Cup is upon and this year the first features several intriguing ties that could be tightly contested and go down to the wire.  In my preview I've also included some notes as to the countries recently promoted or relegated.

World Group

Netherlands at Czech Republic:  Speaking of close ties, this isn't likely to be one of them.  Berdych and Stepanek are at home against a Dutch squad that isn't exactly in form: Haase, Sijsling, de Bakker, and Rojer.  The Czechs march on easily.  CZE 3 NED 0

Canada at Japan:  This was set to be a real dramatic affair but then Raonic and Pospisil both pulled out of singles, though Pospisil will still try doubles.  So it is up Polansky and Dancevic to counter Nishikori and Soeda.  However, if the visitor's can sneak out 1 of the 3 singles rubbers, Nestor should help in the doubles and force a 5th rubber.  There, anything can happen.  I do think Dancevic can beat Soeda but then the Japanese no. 2 will get his revenge over Polanksy.  JPN 3 CAN 2

Spain at Germany:  For some reason, when Spain goes on the road, its best players rarely show up.  So here are Verdasco, Lopez, Bautista-Agut, and Marrero going against some combination of Haas, Kohlschreiber, Mayer, and Brands.  The Germans have been battling injuries and they are at home, but somehow I think Spain escapes here.  For once, they'll have the better doubles team, and their nominations are good hard courters.  ESP 3 GER 1

Australia at France:  With Tomic out, young Kyrgios will see his first Davis Cup action, which doesn't bode well for the Aussies at France.  Hewitt is playing well and brings his best and there very well may be drama but France with Tsonga, Gasquet, and Monfils has too many guns.  FRA 3 AUS 1

Great Britain at United Kingdom:  The USA playing at home on clay?  Seems crazy but probably a good idea.  With Murray showing up I think this tie comes down to the doubles.  The Bryans have lost their last two Davis Cup matches, but I think they'll be up to the challenge here.  There's also on outside chance Isner or Querrey knocks off Murray.  The Brits are also hurt by Ward being their no. 2 rather than Evans, who has been a Davis Cup hero in the past.  USA 3 GBR 2

Italy at Argentina:  Yet another good tie even without Del Potro.  Argentina would be the underdog but they're at home on clay.  Monaco and Berlocq vs Seppi and Fognini.  This is tough to call but I've got to tip the home team and their guys generally show up for Davis Cup.  ARG 3 ITA 2

Belgium at Kazakhstan:  It's always a tough trip to Kazakhstan.  The Kazakhs are tough to beat there and the Belgian no. 1 Goffin has been injured recently.  This seems like an ambush waiting to happen as Kukushkin and Golubev save their best for Davis Cup.  Goffin is supported by Bemelmens and Rochus but I think Kazakhs home court holds true.  KAZ 3 BEL 1

Switzerland at Serbia:  I thought at the beginning of the week this might be a battle of B-teams if Wawrinka pulled out following his Aussie Open bid, but then out of nowhere Federer shows up alongside the new Swiss no. 1.  I feel sorry for Lajovic and Krajinovic.  Does Djokovic?  SUI 3 SRB 0

Of the 16 World Group teams, 12 competed here in 2013.  Netherlands, Great Britain, Japan, and Australia are up from the zones this year.  For Japan it was just a one year absence but the other countries break long droughts.  Australian last competed in the World Group in '07, Great Britain in '08, and the Netherlands in '09.

Europe/Africa Zonal Group I

Poland at Russia (winner vs CRO):  Tursunov and Janowicz are playing for their respective countries, backed by Gabashvili and Przysiezny.  The Poles will have the advantage in the doubles with Fyrstenberg/Matkowski.  Russia generally underperforms in Davis Cup and do not have Youzhny or Davydenko and Janowicz will be motivated after missing the playoff match with an injury.  POL 3 RUS 1

Portugal at Slovenia (winner vs ISR):  The Slovenes are at home so it will be played on hard courts but Kavcic is the only name I recognize.  Sousa (who broke out in Asia last fall), Elias, and Machado should have too much depth.  POR 3 SLO 1

Romania at Ukraine (winner vs SWE):  Ukraine is without Dolgopolov and Stakhovsky, leaving Marchenko and Molchanov to counter Hanescu, Ungur, and Copil, plus Tecau in doubles.  Romania has a good shot in this one, and I think they'll get it done.  ROU 3 UKR 1

Latvia at Slovakia (winner vs AUT):  The one man show of Gulbis versus the deep Slovak team at home.  Check that, Gulbis has pulled out.  Latvia has no chance against Lacko and Klizan.  SVK 3 LAT 0

Croatia, Austria, and Israel were all relegated last year.  It was only one year in the World Group for Israel, but Austria hadn't been relegated since 2010 and Croatia hasn't played in the zone since 2008.  On the other side, Portugal and Latvia were promoted last year.  It was only one year down in Group II for the Portuguese but the Latvians haven't played this high since 2010.

Americas Zonal Group I

Venezuela at Ecuador (winner vs BRA):  Ecuador should be too strong, especially at home

Uruguay at Dominican Republic (winner vs COL):  The Dominicans are a good story, especially their leader Estrella, who reached an ATP quarterfinal last year.  Uruguay generally plays well in Davis Cup, but no P.Cuevas.  Going with the home side.

Brazil was the only relegation last year and they return to the zones after only one year in the World Group.  Venezuela was promoted from Group II last year and their last appearance in Group I was back in 2007.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group I

China def. New Zealand 3-1 (CHN vs UZB next): This tie was moved up due to the Chinese new year.  Wu won 2 5-setters to lead the Chinese

Taiwan at India (winner vs KOR):  The Indian team is finally back to something resembling full strength with Devvarman and Bhambri in singles and Bopanna in doubles.  So they should be able to beat a Taiwanese team playing (as usual) without Lu and Wang.

There were no relegations from the World Group for Asian teams last year.  New Zealand was the team promoted from Group II last year.  They return after just a one year absence.

Europe/Africa Zonal Group II

Monaco at South Africa:  South Africa rarely puts their best foot forward in Davis Cup these days but de Voest, van der Merwe, and Klaasen should be too much for Balleret and Monaco.

Norway at Lithuania:  Berankis is playing and they're at home so Lithuania should advance.

Bulgaria at Finland:  Dimitrov is not playing but Nieminen is so the Finns should advance.  They were one win from promotion last year.

Greece at Bosnia & Herzegovina:  The Bosnians are a team on the rise with Dzumhur (third round at the AO), Basic, and Setkic.  Greece is just happy to be back in Group II.  Bosnia easily advances.

Ireland at Belarus:  I really haven't the foggiest idea, but Belarus is at home and they Mirnyi in advance, so I'll go with them.

Egypt at Moldova:  Moldova was one win from promotion last year, and Albot and Dubarenco are names I see in slam qualifying.  They should be able to handle Egypt.

Luxembourg at Morocco:  The only one of these ties being played on clay, but Muller is showing up for the visitors.  I'll take Luxembourg.

Cyprus at Denmark:  Baghdatis is not playing for Cyprus, so I imagine Denmark with Nielsen can get through.

South Africa and Denmark were the teams relegated from Group I last year.  The Danes last played in Group II in 2011, but it's been since 2008 that South Africa was this low.  Greece and Norway were promoted from Group III last year.  Norway was last in Group II in 2010 and it was 2011 for Greece.

Americas Zonal Group II

Chile at Barbados:  Chile made the World Group quarterfinals in 2010 and now they are shockingly in Group II and playing at a tiny Caribbean island.  Aguilar and young Garin ought to be able to handle King and Lewis, but the islanders have been a tough out in recent years.  Still saying Chile but as shocking as a Barbados win would be, it wouldn't shock me.

El Salvador at Paraguay:  El Salvador was one win from promotion last year while Paraguay was playing in Group III so I'll go with them.

Peru at Bolivia:  No idea.

Mexico at Guatemala:  You would think a big country like Mexico would have some tennis talent, but they have been getting progressively worse in this competition.  A loss to Guatemala wouldn't shock me at this point.

Chile was relegated from Group I last year, and they haven't been this low since...wait for it...1991.  What would Gonzalez and Massu say?  Bolivia and Paraguay were promoted from Group III last year.  Both countries only spent one year at the lower level.

Asia/Pacific Zonal Group II

Philippines at Sri Lanka:  One would think Philippines with a guy named Huey that plays doubles on the tour, but Sri Lanka has been a tough out and they're at home.  The Filipinos were one win from promotion last year.

Pakistan at Vietnam:  This tie has been moved to the middle of February due to the Chinese new year.

Hong Kong at Thailand:  This tie has also been moved to the middle of February due to the Chinese new year.

Indonesia at Kuwait:  I have to believe that Indonesia is the better team here.

Indonesia was relegated from Group I last year, spending just one year at the higher level.  Hong Kong and Vietnam were promoted from Group III last year.  Hong Kong spent just one year at the lower level but this is the highest the Vietnamese have ever been in Davis Cup.

I salute you if you read to the end, I think the zonal ties are cool, that every nation has an opportunity to compete.  Enjoy the tennis this weekend and I'll be back probably Monday with a wrap up.