DUBAI: Australia secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the United States in their Davis Cup quarter-final clash, advancing to the semi-finals after a stunning doubles win.
The match was filled with tension and excitement, culminating in a decisive doubles rubber victory by Matthew Ebden and Jordan Thompson, who defeated Ben Shelton and Tommy Paul 6-4, 6-4.
The tie began with Australia taking the lead as Thanasi Kokkinakis edged past Shelton 6-1, 4-6, 7-6 (16/14) in a nail-biting tie-break that ended in one of the longest in Davis Cup history. Kokkinakis saved four match points and overcame six of his own before securing victory in the gripping finale.
The United States leveled the tie when world number four Taylor Fritz easily dispatched Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-4 in the second singles match. Fritz, fresh off a successful season, including a runner-up finish at the ATP Finals, proved too strong for the Australian, wrapping up the match in just 71 minutes.
With the tie at 1-1, the focus shifted to the doubles rubber. Ebden, a veteran with gold medal experience at the Paris Olympics and a recent Australian Open doubles triumph, joined forces with Thompson to win an intense contest. The Australian duo broke for a 2-1 lead in the second set, and despite a strong fight from the Americans, they served out the match to clinch victory.
Australia’s captain, Lleyton Hewitt, expressed his pride in the team’s performance. “I’m super proud of the boys and the effort they put in,” Hewitt said. The victory secured Australia’s spot in the semi-finals, where they will face either Italy or Argentina, who play later on Thursday.
The US, who have a long history in the Davis Cup, were aiming for their first title since 2007, with Fritz leading their charge. However, Australia’s resilience in the doubles rubber proved the difference, sending them to their first semi-final since 2019.
In the other half of the draw, the Netherlands will take on Germany in the first semi-final on Friday, following their victory over Spain earlier in the week.
Australia, with 28 Davis Cup titles to their name, will now look to continue their pursuit of a 29th crown.
