The British Davis Cup team will not progress to the knockout stages of this year’s Davis Cup after losing a crucial match on Sunday.
Great Britain, who were playing their Gropd D ties on home territory in Manchester, were required to beat Canada 3-0 to seal a place in the quarter-finals. However, their bid failed in the opening match against Canada after Denis Shapovalov beat Dan Evans 6-0, 7-5.
“Very happy to get the win, I know Dan’s a very tough player,” said Shapovalov.
“He’s a tricky opponent and he fights so well. He was clawing his way back in the second set. I haven’t played a cleaner first set than that in my life so super happy to get the win.
“Sometimes 6-0 is the worst lead in tennis. You can’t improve from that first set. It’s tough to keep the momentum going and keep the focus up. I’m extremely happy with the way I was able to serve. I played really well and just happy that I was able to capitalise on my chances today.”
The defeat occurred on what was a record-breaking day for British tennis with 15,700 tickets sold for Sunday’s tie. The most to be ever sold for a home tie for Great Britain in Davis Cup history.
“It wasn’t easy to play against so many Brits,” Shapovalov commented.
“I have experienced it in the past as well. You guys are amazing just not for us. I just tried to stay focused and stay in my bubble and stay ahead as much as I could. I could feel Dan getting pumped up and the crowd too so I was definitely starting to turn so I was happy to get it done in straights.”
Meanwhile, 34-year-old Evans has confirmed to BBC Sport that he is pondering his future in the Davis Cup. He has represented his country in 27 ties which is the second-highest in history for a British player after Bobby Wilson (34). Last year he won five out of seven matches played in the tournament.
“I’ve thought about it long and hard. I’ll have to think a little more,” said Evans.
“I love competing for my country, I’ve loved every minute of it but sometimes you’ve got to know when to leave.
“It will be a difficult decision but sometimes it’s nice to give somebody else the opportunity and watch from afar.”
Canada joined Argentina in securing qualifying for the knockout stages from Group D. The South American team beat Britain 2-1 on Friday.
