Askume, Sep 14 – Second-seeded United States beat Germany in Zhuhai on Saturday to continue its campaign in Davis Cup Group C. Both teamsThe top men’s team advanced to the quarter-finals of the competition.
The 32-time champions are without big-name players such as US Open runner-up Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe in this week’s final group stage but they still have enough firepower to beat the German team and make it three wins in a row.
In the second singles match a day before the doubles match, Brandon Nakajima defeated Maximilian Marteler 6–4, 6–2 to give the United States a 2–0 lead.
“This whole week has been incredible. It’s special to be part of this team,” said Nakajima, who won his third match in his debut.
“Representing the national team has been my dream ever since I started playing tennis, so I am happy to have achieved three wins for the team.”
World number 309 Reilly Opelka, returning from hip and wrist surgery, saved three match points and recovered to hold on to his serve in the clutch to beat his debutant Henry Squire 6-7 (4), who eventually lost 7-6.
The top two countries from the four groups in different cities will advance to the knockout round of eight in Malaga in November.
Apart from the United States and Germany, strong teams like Spain and Australia have also qualified.
Belgium, hoping to qualify from Group A, face Brazil in Bologna, while the Czech Republic take on France in Group B, both teams missing out on promotion after losing in Valencia.
Finland, last year’s surprise semi-finalists, take on Argentina in Manchester and need a win to remain in Group D.
