Philipp Kohlschreiber: 'I can't wait for Davis Cup in Germany, it could be my last'

The second edition of the Davis Cup Qualifiers will take place all around the world on March 6-7, with 24 teams seeking 12 spots at the Davis Cup Finals that will take place in Madrid in November. Germany will host Belarus on an indoor hard court in Dusseldorf, led by Jan-Lennard Struff, Philipp Kohlschreiber, Dominik Kopfer, Kevin Krawietz and Andreas Mies. Alexander Zverev will not play for his country but the Germans are still hoping to deliver their best tennis in front of the home fans and secure the place in Madrid for the second year in a row.

Speaking about the Davis Cup following his first-round win in Dubai, the veteran Philipp Kohlschreiber said he didn't want to be included because of his lowe ranking, still receiving a call from the captain to join the team, probably for the last time in front of the home fans at this competition that he has been playing since 2007. The 36-year-old would love to play at the Davis Cup Finals but also at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, aware it should be his last Olympic campaign in a career. Philipp will bring his experience and knowledge, hoping to play the singles rubbers alongside Jan-Lennard Struff who should be the leader of the German squad in two weeks. 

"It's always nice to play for your country; I asked not to play because my ranking is not that high but they wanted me in the team. It's always an honor to represent your country and I would love to play at the Olympic Games in Tokyo; that's my goal for 2020 as I probably can't get another chance in four years. Also, I would love to see Germany at the Davis Cup Finals in Madrid; it's still the Davis Cup where you can play under the national colors. We have the Davis Cup Qualifiers tie at home, in front of the fans and with the old atmosphere that Davis Cup brings. It could be my last Davis Cup campaign and will try to enjoy it, although I'm always nervous in those matches. I'm looking forward to that Belarus tie and to see if I can help the team; we are ready and the main goal is to reach Madrid. Jan-Lennard Struff is a fantastic team player; he loves the Davis Cup and his commitment is at 100%. He is also a great guy, always good to practice with as he brings a lot of energy. He is powerful in singles but in the doubles too, the team should rely on him."

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3c2B2u2