Davis Cup 2019: I’m confused, but excited!

Here we go kids! The Davis Cup is back and it’s back with a bang. In an effort to try and keep up with team tournaments like the Laver Cup, the new Davis Cup format will happen in one week. That being said, I’m so confused. Let’s break it down.

Apparently, there’s a bunch of participants that have qualified for the World Group, which is code for “finalists” and those that have qualified, will now play for the Davis Cup in a few days. In previous years, the World Group, which I believe basically consisted of quarterfinalists, semifinalists, and finalists would have played it out throughout the year. Not anymore! Now it’s all about, let’s make it happen now, and in four days. Apparently, a total of 18 teams have qualified. The qualification process is mostly what has confused me, and I follow tennis pretty closely. So, if I’m confused, imagine the regular fan. These folks at the Davis Cup may have communications problem.

Another point is that I think this format is pretty risky considering the fact that it now competes with Laver Cup and ATP Cup. They better bring the goods. On as positive note, it looks like Davis Cup has tradition on its side, with this marking the 108th edition of the competition. Not only that, but it’s counting on top players to be present. Add to that the fact that the whole thing is played in “La Caja Magica” which is the stadium that usually plays host to the Masters 1000 tournament, the Madrid Open, and maybe the event will actually be pretty exciting to watch.  I’m optimistic.

So, let’s look at who’s got who. Out of the 18 countries participating, I’ve read that many of the top players have signed up to play, but it’s been difficult to confirm with simple internet searches exactly who. Knowing this piece of information is critical to fans, and garnering interest. You really have to sleuth through the internet to find out this info. 

As of today, it seems like the Russian and Spanish teams are going to come away with this Davis Cup. Russia has Khachanov and Medvedev, while Spain has Nadal and Bautista Agut on their side. Switzerland and Australia with Federer, Wawrinka, and Kyrgios and De Minaur all in line. 

Depending on how this goes, looks like Russia, Spain, Switzerland and Australia are the strongest teams. It will surely be exciting given the star power. So, forget about all the confusion. Let’s focus on the here and now and give this new revamped version of the Davis Cup a chance.