The atmosphere surrounding the Canadian team is different this time at the Davis Cup.
Canada will begin its title defense on Wednesday in Bologna, Italy, when it faces the host nation in Group A. Canada’s 2022 title win — sealed with a 2-0 win -0 against Australia in the final in Malaga, Spain — was the country’s first in this event since 1913.
“Yeah, we will keep good memories,” admitted Denis Shapovalov at a press conference. Very good feelings came back when I learned that I would be part of the team again and yeah, we had experienced something extraordinary together last year. »
“We did it for Canada. So I feel like this year we’re going into this competition with nothing to lose. We no longer feel the pressure of having to prove ourselves, so we can just jump on the field and give our best,” added the Ontarian.
Shapovalov, of Richmond Hill, will represent Canada for the ninth time in his career after withdrawing from the U.S. Open due to a knee injury. The 24-year-old tennis player has a 14-9 record since his first appearance at the Davis Cup in 2016.
He will be accompanied for the occasion by Vasek Pospisil, from Vernon, British Columbia, Montrealer Gabriel Diallo and Laval resident Alexis Galarneau.
Diallo, who is 21, and Galarneau, 24, were reserves on last year’s championship team.
Diallo has already mentioned that the pressure is “unique” in such a team competition.
“In Davis Cup, you are exposed to much more vivid emotions than when you play for yourself,” he explained. I have played in team competitions before, especially at the school ranks, but I think the pressure that comes with representing your country in the Davis Cup is simply unique. »
” My participation [au tournoi de 2022] helped me a lot to learn how to manage my emotions during a match, but also to perfect my preparation, to put myself in my bubble and to be ready for anything,” he added.
There will, however, be a significant difference in the Canadian camp this time, since the 14e world racket, Quebecer Félix Auger-Aliassime, will be conspicuous by his absence.
Canada will face Sweden on Thursday, before completing the group stage against Chile on Saturday.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the elimination rounds, which will take place from November 21 to 26 in Malaga. This is also where the champion country will be crowned.