“It was like a roller coaster”: Germany’s captain analyzed the exciting Davis Cup series against Argentina
Approximately seven hours were needed to define the last ticket to the semifinals of the Davis Cup 2025because Germany would beat the 2-1 Argentina in the most exciting series so far after doubles players Tim Puetz (11th) and Kevin Krawietz (11th) saved three match points against Horacio Zeballos (5th) and Andrés Molteni (25th) at the decisive point.
“It was like a roller coaster. I think at least the first set of the first match should have been ours. We were winning 3-1, 40-15. We had a great opportunity for a double break. Suddenly we found ourselves at a disadvantage. We lost the first set in the tie-break. In the second set, I think Argentina was slightly superior. But Jan-Lennard stayed in the game,” analyzed the German captain. Michael Kohlmannabout the initial triumph of Tomás Etcheverry (60th) versus Jan-Lennard Struff (84th), in a press conference.
Subsequently, the one born in Hagen 51 years ago, who has led the European team since 2015, referred to the success of Alexander Zverev (3rd) against Francisco Cerúndolo (21st) to force the third match: “I think Sascha had a fantastic start. A really impressive start. His serve worked wonderfully. That helped him reach the tiebreak. At first he was the best on the court, but then Francisco improved his game. The match could have gone to either of the two.“.
“In the Davis Cup I always say that every doubles match is 50/50. In the end, many times those who are next to me win. I think that It is a great advantage for us to have a team that plays together on the circuitwho knows himself well and is capable of overcoming difficult moments,” acknowledged the former world number 27 in doubles about the importance of Puetz and Krawietz joining forces throughout the season.
On the other hand, the one who retired in 2012 dedicated a few words to Spaintheir next rival: “They also got a close victory. I think the Spain vs. Czech Republic match was also very close. Both matches, very close, were scheduled for the same day. Sometimes it happens. That’s why we’re still here at 1:00. Our Davis Cup record against Spain is pretty bad. I remember we won once, I think in 2013. In 2018, we lost in Spain.”
“They have a strong teameven after Carlos’s resignation. I think Munar had a great year. Today he showed why he is a true number one. Pablo Carreño Busta and Pedro Martínez are strong players. They passed the qualifying round against Denmark. They have experience. They know how to win closely contested games. Granollers has won two Grand Slams. I expect a very difficult game like today. I hope we meet again here with a two-point advantage,” concluded Kohlmann, who dreams of bringing the fourth salad bowl to his country.
