Germany produced a sensational comeback to defeat Argentina in a thrilling Davis Cup doubles decider, booking their place in the semi-finals against Spain. The victory marks a dramatic turn in the tournament as Germany looks to emulate their past glories, having previously lifted the Davis Cup in 1988, 1989, and 1993.

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Epic Doubles Decider Sees Germany Edge Argentina

The deciding doubles rubber between Germany and Argentina provided a match for the ages. Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz saved three match points in a final-set tie-break to overcome Horacio Zeballos and Andres Molteni 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (12-10) in a grueling encounter lasting two hours and 31 minutes.

Argentina initially took the lead in the tie when world number 60 Tomas Etcheverry delivered a masterclass in serving, hitting 23 aces to beat Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6 (7-3), 7-6 (9-7).

Germany’s hopes rested on world number three Alexander Zverev, who secured a crucial singles victory against world number 21 Francisco Cerundolo 6-4, 7-6 (7-3). Although Zverev was not at his peak, his performance in the tie-break proved decisive in keeping Germany’s semi-final ambitions alive.

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Germany’s Comeback Highlights Doubles Prowess

The doubles match initially seemed to favor Argentina as Zeballos and Molteni dominated the first set. However, the German duo of Krawietz and Puetz, boasting three Grand Slam doubles titles between them, took control in the second set and pushed the decider to a dramatic tie-break.

Germany’s resilience was on full display when they missed four match points, including three consecutively, before finally clinching the win on their fifth opportunity.

“Incredible. There aren’t many matches you play in your career like that,” said Puetz. “It feels better to win in the end, but what a great match and a great Davis Cup tie.”

This victory ensures Germany progresses to the semi-finals for the second consecutive year, a feat they have not achieved since their title-winning campaign in 1993.

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Spain Survive Without Alcaraz to Reach Semi-Finals

Meanwhile, Spain overcame the absence of world number one Carlos Alcaraz, who withdrew due to a right hamstring issue, to defeat the Czech Republic 2-1. Despite a shaky start after Jakub Mensik’s 20-ace performance saw him beat Pablo Carreno Busta 7-5, 6-4, Spain fought back through Jaume Munar, who claimed his first Davis Cup singles victory over Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-4.

The deciding doubles saw Marcel Granollers and Pedro Martinez triumph 7-6 (10-8), 7-6 (10-8) over Tomas Machac and Jakub Mensik. The Czechs had multiple opportunities to close the match but ultimately fell short.

“We are really happy that we fought hard for the whole team. We believed, and here we are in the semi-finals,” said Granollers. “Last year was difficult for us [quarter-final exit], but we know this competition is very difficult. We can see here how good the teams are. We have a young team, but we are still alive.”

Spain’s win sets up an exciting semi-final showdown with Germany in Bologna, while two-time defending champions Italy take on Belgium in the other semi-final.

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Davis Cup Finals Context

• Germany: Davis Cup champions in 1988, 1989, and 1993.
• Spain: Six-time Davis Cup winners (2000, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2019).
• Alexander Zverev: Germany’s top-ranked player and crucial to team success.
• Carlos Alcaraz: Absent for Spain due to injury.

The stage is set for a thrilling semi-final clash between Germany and Spain, with both nations aiming to advance to the Davis Cup final.