Defending The Davis Cup In Austria

“I really embrace the team aspect,” Andy said in his pre-SAP Open phone conference when asked about Davis Cup. “Representing your country is an honor.”

Andy, James, Mike, and Bob are taking this honor and their title overseas to Vienna, Austria, this weekend to begin their defense. On February 8 – 10th, Team USA will be sliding and slicing on the red clay court in Ferry Dusika Stadium for this first round tie.

In addition to choosing clay courts for slower games, “we also picked slow balls so we will see many rallies. Andy Roddick and James Blake don’t like that, they want to put balls away as soon as possible,” commented Austria’s Jurgen Melzer, who may play both singles and doubles.

Team USA leads 2-0 over Austria in Davis Cup, the first win occurring back in 1990 on clay in Vienna and the second in 2004 on hard courts in Connecticut, USA. Stefan Koubek leads Austria’s team ranked number 55, followed closely by Jurgen Melzer (57). World number six doubles player Julian Knowle will partner with Melzer or Werner Eschauer to take on the Bryans.

“Davis Cup is a priority,” Andy said about his dedication and continuation of working hard to defend their title. “We’ve won it, but that doesn’t mean we’re in the clear. It’s going to be with us forever. But you just can’t abandon what you’re passionate about just because there’s been a little bit of success.”

To catch the action on TV, the Tennis Channel has it on delay and you can also tune into Versus internationally:
Day 1 :Friday 8th February 12:00-18:00 EST
Day 2 :Saturday 9th February12:00-15:00 EST
Day 3 :Sunday 10th February12:00-17:00 EST

As Andy prepares for round one, we’re preparing to cheer him on. Stay tuned to AR.com for the Order of Play, the draw, and everything Andy and Team USA in Vienna. Go USA!