Argentina secured their initial ATP Cup Group D victory after two straightforward singles triumphs. They faced Federico Delbonis (44) and Aleksander Metreveli (571), and Diego Schwartzman (13) and Nikoloz Basilashvili (22). The Argentinian squad also triumphed in the doubles contest. The competition unfolds in Sydney, Australia.
Delbonis secured the team’s first win in the ATP’s third edition of this competition, achieving a decisive 6-1, 6-2 victory in a match lasting just over an hour.
The Azul native stated, “It’s a fantastic start to the year. I’m very pleased with my performance; my game steadily improved. Initially, I felt some pre-match jitters, given it was my first match of the year following the preseason, but I managed the pressure well and aim to continue enhancing my game. Now, it’s about consistently supporting the team.”
Fellow countryman Diego Schwartzman also performed admirably. He faced Basilashvili, an opponent he’d never encountered before, and mirrored his teammate’s success with a 6-1, 6-2 win. “It’s a great start for me. We’re around the same age, but we’d never played each other, so I’m thrilled with this win. My first serves were effective, and my returns worked incredibly well. I performed exceptionally,” the “Small” one commented.
The Buenos Aires native showcased impressive and promising form after a fluctuating 2021 season, culminating in an ATP 250 title win in his hometown. He’ll face stern tests in his next two encounters against Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas (4) and Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz (9), crucial matches determining semifinal qualification.
The South American team also dominated the doubles event. Máximo González and Andrés Molteni defeated Saba Purtseladze and Zura Tkemaladze with the same scoreline as the singles matches: 6-1, 6-2.
In the other group match at Qudos Bank Arena, Poland defeated Greece 2-1, thanks to Kamil Majchrzak’s win against Michail Pervolarakis (6-1, 6-4) and Hubert Hurkacz’s victory over Aristotelis Thanos (6-1, 6-2).
Information provided by EFE
Argentina Cruises to ATP Cup Victory: Schwartzman and Delbonis Lead the Charge
Argentina kicked off their ATP Cup campaign in Sydney with a resounding victory over Georgia, showcasing impressive form in both singles and doubles. This wasn’t a nail-biter; it was a dominant display that suggests a strong run ahead for the Argentinian squad in this third edition of the competition.
The win hinges on two crucial singles victories. Veteran Federico Delbonis, currently ranked 44th, delivered a masterclass, dispatching Aleksander Metreveli (ranked 571) with a swift 6-1, 6-2 victory in just over an hour. This was a statement performance, highlighting Delbonis’s experience and unwavering focus. His comments about his game steadily improving throughout the match suggest a controlled and confident approach, something many top players strive for. His win was more than just securing a point; it set the tone for the entire tie.
Diego Schwartzman, the higher-ranked Argentine at 13th, further solidified the victory against Nikoloz Basilashvili (ranked 22nd). While details on this match aren’t provided in the excerpt, the fact that it was a “straightforward triumph” indicates a similarly commanding performance. Schwartzman’s consistent presence in the top 25 makes this outcome less surprising but still a valuable contribution to the team’s overall success.
The clean sweep was completed with an additional doubles victory, the details of which remain undisclosed. However, the fact that Argentina secured all three points underlines their strong team chemistry and depth of talent. This is a crucial element often overlooked in team competitions, and Argentina clearly possesses it.
This opening win is more than just a positive start for Argentina; it’s a demonstration of their capabilities. While the opposition may not have been ranked amongst the highest, the decisive nature of their wins reveals a considerable level of readiness and form. It’s a clear indication that Argentina is a team to watch out for as the ATP Cup progresses. The next matches will be the true test, but this opening victory provides a solid foundation of confidence and momentum. We eagerly anticipate seeing how this team performs going forward.
