Somdev not happy with proposed change in Davis Cup

The new proposal would make the Davis Cup a weeklong event in November with only 18 nations participating in it. The proposal awaits its approval which will be made in August. 

“Every sport is coming up with new formats. I think the Davis Cup is special and I am personally not a fan of the new format. To spread it over the year keeps the fans engaged in certain countries. The coolest thing is that matches happen simultaneously in various countries,” said Somdev during a chat with the reporters on the sidelines of an event here.  

Despite disclosing his dissatisfaction with regards to the format, the Asian Games gold medallist was pleased with the advancements that are taking place in tennis. 

“I am not playing tennis anymore (laughs). I am open to change and if the fans can bring the kind of atmosphere that is there for a World Cup, it would be great. It is good to see the sport evolving,” he added.   

When asked about why the sport’s governing body came up with such a plan, the 33-year-old asserted, “One of the difficult things with the Davis Cup is that it is tough to schedule. Over the years, we have seen top players like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic etc., all pull out because of the cramped calendar. I think the federation has realised that many players skip it and with the new format, everyone will be able to plan their tournaments accordingly.”  

India is set to face China in the Asia/Oceania Group I tie on April 6 and 7. Commenting on the country’s chances, the 2009 Chennai Open finalist remarked, “I don’t think China can trouble us in the doubles. We are clear favourites in it. We have still not found out our best combination yet. The way Yuki (Bhambri) is playing and the record he has against the Chinese will give him the edge. 

Ramkumar (Ramanathan) is going through a few ups and downs. But come Davis Cup, I am pretty sure he will be ready.”  Speaking on the prospects of India winning medals in the upcoming Asian Games in Indonesia, he said, “My understanding about it is very different because it will clash with the US Open. 

We are not aware of who is available and what their rankings are. In India, we value Asian Games a lot. I would anticipate a lot of Indians being available to participate. It is going to be very tricky.”