World No.4 Alexander Zverev has become the latest player to dismiss a motion by the ITF to change the format of the Davis Cup.
Later this year a vote will take place over whether to turn the team competition into a weeklong 18-team event. The plan was announced earlier this year by the governing body of the sport along with a 25-year $3 billion investment by Kosmos if it is approved. A company owned by Barcelona F.C. footballer Gerard Pique.
The plans has been meet with a mixed response. Some have branded the changes as too radical with the removal of home and away ties. Lucas Pouille has threatened to boycott a new-look event and French team captain Yannick Noah believes the event could be ‘turned into a circus.’
Weighing in on the debate, Zverev believes the recent matches played in the tournament is proof that the current format is working. Last week, Zverev was part of the German team that lost 3-2 to Spain in Valencia. The tie was decided by a five-set marathon between David Ferrer and Philipp Kohlschreiber with the Spanish veteran prevailing 7-5 in the decider.
“I think last weekend made sure that it is not going to change. I think so because the tie we had in Spain, the emotions that there were, the matches we had. Any tennis fanatic will say that only this happens in the Davis Cup.” Zverev told reporters on Sunday.
“I think that all the other ties, including the one between France and Italy, was good as well. I think a lot of players don’t want to lose that.” He added.
The German federation has previously been outspoken about the new plans. Last week team captain, Michael Kohlmann, said to one reporter, “Greetings to Dave Haggerty, this is Davis Cup” following his country’s marathon win in the men’s doubles match. His comments were then posted on the official Twitter account of the Federation.
A vote will take place in August.
Teaming up with Lendl?
After recently separating from Juan Carlos Ferrero, rumours have circulated about who will be the next person to mentor the 20-year-old. One of the front-runners is Ivan Lendl. An eight-time grand slam champion that previously coached Andy Murray. The Czech 58-year-old was spotted watching one of Zverev’s matches at the Miami Open.
Since then, there has been no indication that the two will collaborate. Although Zverev has confirmed that some discussion have taken place.
“Yes, at dinner, but only because he knows my physiotherapist. There have been some important contacts, it’s a possibility.” Zverev commented about the two potentially working together.
“I already have the best coach in the world. My dad produced two top 30 (players), with different styles, and one of them even won a couple of Masters 1000.” He added.
Zverev is the third seed in the Monte Carlo draw. He is the only player outside of the ‘big four’ to win multiple Masters 1000 titles since the category was introduced in 2009.
