Finland caused a major upset by defeating the United States in the Davis Cup, securing their spot in the quarter-finals for the first time. Meanwhile, the Czech Republic, Canada, and Australia also advanced in the competition.
In the Group D matches, Otto Virtanen of Finland outlasted Mackenzie McDonald, winning 7-6(5) 1-6 7-6(7), while Emil Ruusuvuori secured Finland’s place in the last eight with a hard-fought 7-6(1) 6-4 victory over Tommy Paul. Ruusuvuori expressed the significance of this achievement for Finland and their strong team.
Despite facing physical struggles, Ruusuvuori fought through and found a way to win in two long sets. He had skipped the U.S. Open due to illness and arrived at the Davis Cup in less than ideal shape.
In Group C, Serbia, who had already qualified, found themselves trailing 2-0 against the Czech Republic. Novak Djokovic, the world number one, had chosen to skip the singles matches after leading Serbia to victory over Spain the previous day. Dusan Lajovic suffered a defeat against Jakub Mensik, putting Serbia in a difficult position.
Laslo Djere, despite a back problem, saved four match points in his match against Jiri Lehecka but ultimately lost 7-6(7) 7-5. Lehecka acknowledged Djere’s skill and resilience, emphasizing the challenge of playing against him.
The knockout rounds of the Davis Cup will take place in Malaga from November 21-26. Australia secured their spot in the next round by defeating Switzerland 3-0 in Group B. Thanasi Kokkinakis and Alex de Minaur won their singles matches, while Max Purcell and Matthew Ebden dominated in the doubles rubber.
Canada’s Alexis Galarneau, ranked 200th in the world, continued his impressive performance by defeating Alejandro Tabilo of Chile. This win ensured that the defending champions would progress to the next round.
Nicolas Jarry leveled the Group A tie for Canada by defeating Gabriel Diallo before the deciding doubles rubber.
Overall, it was a week of strong performances and team efforts from the participating nations in the Davis Cup.
