Germany Advances in Davis Cup Despite Zverev Absence, struff and Hanfmann Secure Victories
Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany – The German Davis Cup team secured a strong start in their quest for a place in the final round, defeating Japan despite the late withdrawal of top player Alexander Zverev. The team’s success hinged on commanding performances from Jan-Lennard Struff and Yannick Hanfmann, setting the stage for a potential appearance in the finals, scheduled to take place November 18-23 in Bologna, Italy. Zverev cited stress as the reason for his unavailability for the Japan tie.
Struff spearheaded the German effort, overcoming yoshihito Nishioka wiht a display of powerful serving and unwavering composure.The veteran landed an impressive 18 aces throughout the match and crucially,saved all ten break points against his opponent. “I knew that it would be a tough, difficult match,” Struff told the German Press Agency after the victory.
The frist set saw a tight contest, ultimately decided by Struff capitalizing on his very first break point opportunity to claim the set. While Nishioka fought back to win the second set in a tie-break, Struff regained control in the third, securing a decisive break to lead 5-4 and close out the match. ”I tried to stay calm and beleive in myself,” he explained.
Struff’s recent form has been a significant boost for the German team. A strong showing at the US Open in New York, where he reached the round of 16 before falling to Novak Djokovic – a 24-time Grand Slam champion – propelled him 46 places up the world rankings, from 144 to 98. “Of course that helps if you have a little tailwind and won several matches. Then you play with a little more self-image,” Struff acknowledged.
Hanfmann followed up Struff’s victory with a pleasant win over Shintaro Mochizuki. Ranked 104th in the world – 31 places ahead of Hanfmann – Mochizuki proved no match for the German’s dominance.
The team now looks ahead to the final round in Bologna, aiming to continue their momentum and compete for the Davis Cup title.
