NEW YORK: Former world number one Andy Roddick will play for the US Davis Cup squad in 2011 after skipping the event this year, the US Tennis Association announced on Thursday.
Roddick will join new coach Jim Courier when the Americans visit Chile for a first-round tie on the red clay of Santiago on March 4-6. “I’m very excited to be back,” Roddick said. “Davis Cup is something you should commit to for the entire season and not when it’s convenient. Trying to win the Davis Cup again is a top priority for me in 2011.”
Roddick, whose only Grand Slam singles crown came at the 2003 US Open, is 31-11 in Davis Cup matches, second only to John McEnroe’s US-record 41 triumphs in singles matches. Roddick helped the Americans claim the trophy in 2007. “Having Andy commit to the 2011 campaign is huge for our team,” Courier said.
“Andy not only brings his outstanding Davis Cup record but also his experience and team leadership, which will be invaluable to our efforts.” Courier replaced Patrick McEnroe, who had been the only other coach to guide Roddick in the Davis Cup. “I look forward to working with Jim next season,” said Roddick. “It will be strange to be sitting next to someone other than Patrick on the bench, but I have a great deal of respect for Jim.”
