Pat Rafter is rewarding Sam Groth’s recent form in the United States with a spot on Australia’s Davis Cup team to play Uzbekistan September 12-14.
Coming off a recent first appearance in the top 100 and a second-round loss to Roger Federer at the US Open last week, Groth joins the team alongside Lleyton Hewitt, rising star Nick Kyrgios and doubles specialist Chris Guccione for the two-day event at Perth beachside suburb Cottesloe.
“It’s been a big couple of months for the boys and we’ve seen some good results, both on grass during and after Wimbledon, and at the US Open last week,” Rafter said.
“Lleyton won the title in Newport, Nick had a fantastic run at Wimbledon, beating Rafa to make the quarters, and he continued his momentum at the US Open.
“‘Gooch’ and `Grothy’ have won six doubles titles together alone this year and I’m pleased to bring Sam into the team for his Davis Cup debut.
Bernard Tomic will miss out on the group stage event after being forced from the US Open with a hip injury.
“It was unfortunate Bernie had to withdraw from the US Open and won’t be able to play next week.
“We all wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him back on court soon.”
Overlooking the Indian Ocean, a temporary 4,000-seat grandstand has been erected at the Cottesloe Tennis Club which will also play host world No.41 Uzbekistani Denis Istomin.
“We’re just an ordinary tennis club with 600-odd members,” club president David Chadwick said. “But because they wanted to have the tie on grass, we were one of the eight clubs in the country invited to apply for it.
“Everyone’s very excited, it’s the biggest thing ever to happen at the club.”
Photo: Don Emmert/Getty Images
