A guide to the Davis Cup
17th February 2013
The Davis Cup by BNP Paribas is the largest annual international team competition in sport with 130 nations taking part in 2013 in the ITF's centenary year. The competition is 114 years old having been founded in 1900 and is the premier international team event in men’s tennis.
What makes it different from other tennis tournaments is the fact it’s a team competition so spectators can play a huge role in the tie, supporting and cheering on their compatriots on court.
Each tie consists of 5 matches (rubbers), which are played within three days. The winner is the nation who wins three or more of these ties. When the Aegon GB Davis Cup Team take on Russia this April, they will play two singles matches on Friday 5, one doubles match on Saturday 6 and then two more singles matches on Sunday 7 April.
GB last won the competition back in 1936 and in this tie against Russia they will be looking for promotion into the World Group play-offs taking place in September.
And for those coming to support the tie this April, here’s some tips for you:
- Turn up wearing your countries colours
- Bring along musical instruments, rattles, drums
- Bring your singing voices and make some noise
- Encourage friends, family and kids to come along with you, the more the merrier
- Paint your face in your country’s colours
- Stand up and join in the dancing
- Take photographs and share on social media
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Have lots of fun
Gavin Fletcher, Tournament Director for the Davis Cup said; “The Davis Cup is a great event for the whole family. We encourage people to dress up, paint their faces and make some noise on the day. Entertainment is a big part of the event, with music and lighting helping to create a fantastic atmosphere.
“It really helps the team to know that they have the support of the spectators. We saw how the crowd could help encourage competitors to succeed at the Olympics and we hope that there will be a similar atmosphere at this Davis Cup tie against Russia.”
The Aegon GB Davis Cup Team take on Russia at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry from Friday 5-Sunday 7 April 2013.