Australia have secured their place in the finals of the Davis Cup after a thrilling match in which they came from 2-1 down to take the best-of-five series, with Thanasi Kokkinakis beating Zsombor Piros in the crucial fifth match.
The team of John Peers and Luke Saville went down in straight sets to Fabian Marozsan and Mate Valkusz, meaning the hosts would have to win both return singles legs to take the tie.
Alex De Minaur duly obliged with a 7-6, 6-4 win over Marton Fucsovics, setting the stage for a final match for all the marbles.
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Kokkinakis was never really troubled, taking the match 6-4, 6-4.
“I had full confidence in the guys – Demon’s our leader, unbelievable from him… and I had to do my part,” he said afterwards.
“To play a fifth rubber at home, it’s incredible. I get nervous but knowing these guys come out here and give it their all every time, it makes me want to perform.”
It’s been an incredible year for Kokkinakis, from a breakthrough ATP triumph in Adelaide, to a Grand Slam alongside Nick Kyrgios – and now this.
“I couldn’t have asked for more to start the year. Davis Cup’s so different – in those ATP tournaments, you’re playing for yourself.”
“Having this support is unreal.”
Captain Lleyton Hewitt was elated with the effort.
“I’m so proud. This wasn’t an easy tie – to come back for, as well. These guys made a hell of an effort,” he said.
“They deserved to get the win today and it’s fantastic to be back through to the finals at the end of the year.”
The group stage of the finals will take place in September, ahead of the knockouts in late November.
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