Despite Alexander Zverev’s cancellation, the German tennis players are optimistic ahead of the Davis Cup duel to keep their place in the class.
Despite the cancellation of Alexander Zverev, the German tennis players are optimistic about the Davis Cup duel for staying in the class in Bosnia-Herzegovina.
“I’m very positive about the outcome this weekend,” said captain Michael Kohlmann ahead of Saturday’s (12.00) and Sunday’s (10.30) match in Mostar: “In general, you have to say from the ranking position that we are favourites despite Sascha’s absence.”
In addition to Zverev, Jan-Lennard Struff (Warstein), who has been injured for some time lately, is also not available. Daniel Altmaier (Kempen) and Yannick Hanfmann (Karlsruhe) are the first options for the singles matches.
“They have both already worked their way up into the top 50 this year and are ready to get their first points for Germany,” said Kohlmann. In addition, Maximilian Marterer (Nuremberg) will be there, while Kevin Krawietz/Tim Pütz (Coburg/Frankfurt) will compete in the doubles.
The Bosnians feature the former world number 23 in Damir Dzumhur and have the home advantage. Kohlmann described the journey as “arduous” in parts, but said conditions were good with temperatures currently between 30 and 32 degrees. “From what we’ve heard, tennis is not the number one sport in Bosnia,” he said: “But apparently this is already a highlight. We are prepared, solidified and will definitely go against it as a team. “
