Düsseldorf – The German Davis Cup team is on the cusp of advancing to the next stage of the competition, securing a commanding 2-0 lead over Peru in their qualifying match held in Düsseldorf. The impressive start comes even without the presence of star player Alexander Zverev, who is still recovering from a grueling semifinal loss at the Australian Open.
The atmosphere at the sold-out Düsseldorf Castello, with approximately 3,000 spectators, was electric as Yannick Hanfmann and Jan-Lennard Struff delivered decisive victories in the opening singles matches. Hanfmann overcame Gonzalo Bueno with a score of 6-4, 6-4, setting the tone for the day. Struff then followed suit, defeating Juan Pablo Varillas 6-4, 6-2, solidifying Germany’s advantage.
The pivotal moment now rests on the shoulders of doubles pairing Kevin Krawietz and Tim Pütz, who have the opportunity to clinch the overall win for Germany on Saturday. Should they falter, Germany retains two further singles matches as potential avenues to secure their progression.
“A great start,” Hanfmann summarized, reflecting the team’s positive momentum. Struff’s match concluded in a swift 75 minutes, though he acknowledged a slight dip in form after a strong initial start. “He stood in the first 60, fell off a bit, was injured. I knew I had to play with pressure. I did well for long stretches,” Struff explained. “On the whole, I’m very happy. It’s very nice to have a home game again.”
Hanfmann emphasized the unique team dynamic inherent in the Davis Cup, a rare experience for professional tennis players. He highlighted the importance of a dominant serve, particularly in indoor conditions, as a key factor in his victory. “It was emotional for me. The emotions in the Davis Cup are special,” he said. “Especially in indoor tennis, it is important to serve so well. I think that frustrated him too.” He secured crucial breaks in the first set (2-1) and the second set (1-0), establishing control of the match.
The German team’s ambitions extend beyond simply qualifying for the next round. Captain Michael Kohlmann has underscored the team’s long-term goal: to secure Germany’s first Davis Cup title since 1993. This aspiration is fueled by recent successes, including two semifinal appearances in the past two years, and a determination to overcome the disappointment of their semifinal defeat against Spain last November, a match where Zverev was present.
The potential path forward sees Germany potentially facing either Denmark or Croatia in September, should they secure victory against Peru. This would be a qualifying match for a place in the final round featuring the top eight nations.
Krawietz and Pütz bring a formidable record to the doubles match, having won 13 of their 14 Davis Cup encounters. Their only defeat came against Canada two years ago at the same stage, a loss that ultimately paved the way for Canada to lift the trophy. This history adds an extra layer of intensity to their upcoming match, as captain Kohlmann noted, “We have a score to settle with the Canadians.”
The pairing’s recent triumph at the ATP Finals, becoming the first German duo to win the season-ending championship in Turin, has further bolstered confidence within the team. Jan-Lennard Struff lauded their “outstanding success” and expressed the team’s delight at their achievement.
While Zverev’s absence is notable, Germany has demonstrated its depth and resilience. The team’s ability to perform at a high level without its top-ranked player speaks to the strength of the overall squad and the effectiveness of Kohlmann’s leadership. The captain’s strategy of utilizing the doubles team as a potential match-winner underscores a tactical approach focused on maximizing the team’s strengths.
The upcoming doubles match is therefore not merely a formality, but a critical juncture in Germany’s Davis Cup journey. A victory would not only secure their advancement but also send a strong message to their rivals about their capabilities and determination to contend for the title. The pressure is on Krawietz and Pütz to deliver, but the team’s overall confidence and the support of the home crowd suggest they are well-equipped to rise to the occasion.
Ignacio Buse, Peru’s highest-ranked player at just inside the top 200, was held back for the opening day singles, indicating a strategic decision by the Peruvian team. However, Germany’s dominance in the initial matches suggests that even Buse may struggle to turn the tide against a determined and well-prepared German squad.
The Davis Cup continues to showcase the unique blend of individual skill and team spirit that defines the competition. For Germany, this year’s campaign represents an opportunity to build on recent successes and finally reclaim the title that has eluded them for over three decades. The road ahead may be challenging, but with a strong team, a supportive home crowd, and a clear sense of purpose, Germany is well-positioned to make a serious run at the championship.
