Argentina has ended their 93-year Davis Cup title drought following Federico Delbonis’ outstanding 6-3, 6-4, 6-2, win over Ivo Karlovic in the decisive match of the final at the Arena Zagreb.
The hopes and dreams of the South American nation were revived earlier on Sunday when Juan Martin del Potro outlasted Marin Cilic in a five-set marathon to level the tie with Croatia at 2-2. Del Potro’s triumph meant that Delbonis was the man who had the chance to make history for his country. Standing in his way was 37-year-old Karlovic, a man who lead 3-0 in their head-to-head (not counting retirements) prior to this weekend.
The mood inside the Arena Zagreb could have been mistaken for once seen at a UEFA Champions League final with the crowd screaming and shouting, cheering on their own team. Even the match officials struggled to tame the crowd, especially during the previous match between Del Potro and Cilic.
Nevertheless, the animated audience did little to disrupt the focus of world No.41 Delbonis. Facing a player famous for his blistering serves, the calm and collective Argentine benefitted from his opponent’s mistakes. Battling to hold serve in a seven-minute fifth game, Delbonis struck gold in the sixth. Karlovic’s tentative movement around the court was rightfully punished as a double-handed backhand down the line rewarded Argentina a trio of break points. The break for 4-2 was then secured after a Karlovic forehand plummeted into the net. Winning 69% of his first serves against his more experienced rival in the opening set, Delbonis carefully guided himself to the lead with the help of another error from his rival.
Inevitably the serve proved to be a crucial part of the decisive match when featuring Karlovic, a player who won 83% of his first service points throughout the 2016 season. The service supremacy of the 37-year-old is one that many envy, but it was one that Delbonis never feared. Refusing to be bossed around the court, the Argentine kept returning serves back with interest, making uncomfortable viewing for the hosts. A cross-court return winner handed Delbonis a chance for a set and a break advantage, but he was denied following a barrage of Karlovic serves (three aces and one unsuccessfully returned). The breakthrough occurred at 4-4 with a Karlovic misjudgment at the net resulting in Delbonis breaking for a chance to serve for the second set. Cheered on by the army of blue and white Argentine fans, a smash elevated him to two set points. Only one was required after a backhand slice from his opponent drifted beyond the baseline.
Six games away from victory, there was no way to mask the excitement of the away team. Since 1981, Argentina has suffered heartbreak with four losses in the final of the team tournament. This time round was different. The camp was reassured by the seemingly faultless Delbonis, who pounced when required. A successful lob short against his 6’11” opponent granted Argentina the 2-1 break in the third set. Closing in on the historic win, the dominance of Delbonis’ serve was too strong for Karlovic to dismantle. A forehand winner secured the double break for Delbonis as he battled to a game away from the win. Serving for one of the biggest titles of his life, history was made when a Karlovic forehand sailed out.
“This is one of my dreams that has come true.” Said Delbonis. “We play well for our country, we play well with our hearts. We tried to do the best and this is what we got. For me, it’s amazing.”
Argentina is now only the 15th country to lift the trophy in the 105-year history of the Davis Cup. Team captain Daniel Orsanic spoke with pride about his country’s achievement.
“I feel that we did what we had to do. We could have lost, but the guys were amazing today. Juan Martin, what an incredible match, and Federico played the best match of his life.” He said. “I’ve a dream of (winning) it so many times, we all have. We are all part of Argentine tennis and I think tennis is traditional at home and we deserved it. It’s a privilege to be with this group.”
Orsanic also paid special tribute to del Potro and his dream return to the tour this season. Hampered by a series of wrist injuries, the former US Open champion contemplated retirement before returning to action in February.
“His comeback is the comeback of the history. His comeback today was also the comeback of the Davis Cup. He’s a genius and his heart is so big.”
Argentina is now the first South American country in history to win the Davis Cup.
A real team effort from Argentina! pic.twitter.com/ytq4bbEYas
— Davis Cup (@DavisCup) 27 November 2016
