Belgium pulled off a sensational upset over France in the opening match of the Davis Cup Finals, shocking fans and analysts alike. With several top players missing, the victory has intensified discussions about the tournament’s format.
As a result, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) is reviewing ways to ensure star players return for future editions.
Raphael Collignon, ranked 86th, staged a remarkable comeback to beat French world number 35 Corentin Moutet 2-6, 7-5, 7-5. Moreover, his win set the stage for teammate Zizou Bergs to secure a semi-final clash against Italy or Austria. Bergs, named after football legend Zinedine Zidane, defeated Arthur Rinderknech 6-3, 7-6 (7-4).
World number one Carlos Alcaraz withdrew from Spain’s team due to an injury sustained at the ATP Finals. Meanwhile, Germany’s Alexander Zverev became the only top-10 singles player competing in this year’s tournament. Several others, including Italy’s Jannik Sinner, chose to prioritise recovery over participation.
Both Alcaraz and Sinner have supported the idea of turning the Davis Cup into a biennial event. Accordingly, ITF chief executive Ross Hutchins confirmed consultations with top players to encourage future participation. “We want to explore what’s right moving forward while maintaining the event’s historic appeal,” Hutchins said.
Belgium’s dramatic wins highlight tournament excitement
On the court, Moutet initially dominated Collignon, racing to a 4-0 lead in the first set. However, Collignon capitalised on a costly error by Moutet to level the match and force a decider. Consequently, the Belgian player seized momentum by winning the final set in the 12th game.
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Bergs appeared to have a straightforward victory against Rinderknech, leading by a set and a break. Yet Rinderknech broke back at 5-4, keeping the match alive. Nevertheless, Bergs recovered and won in a tie-break, celebrating with his team after clinching his second match point.
On the other half of the draw, Spain will face the Czech Republic, while Argentina takes on Germany. Great Britain missed out this year after losing 3-2 to Japan in February’s qualifying round. However, Leon Smith’s squad remains in contention for next year’s finals after defeating Poland in September.
Doubles specialists Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool emphasised Britain’s need to prove competitiveness in 2026. Additionally, they highlighted the nation’s depth and potential in both singles and doubles. “You have to earn your spot every year, but we have the talent to challenge the elite,” Cash explained.
Injuries and strategy shape Davis Cup participation
Britain last lifted the Davis Cup in 2015 under Andy Murray and reached the semi-finals in 2019. Yet injuries, including top-ranked Jack Draper missing the Japan tie, have hampered recent campaigns. Due to this, fitness remains a critical factor for future success.
Cash noted that injuries are unavoidable, but teams must remain prepared for last-minute call-ups. Moreover, maintaining peak condition will influence how nations perform in the season-ending event. Ultimately, the Davis Cup continues to blend drama, skill, and strategy in its high-stakes format.
The ITF aims to balance historical tradition with modern scheduling demands. Accordingly, discussions with players will shape the competition’s structure for years to come. Fans eagerly await the outcomes as Belgium, Spain, and other nations battle for glory.
Tags: Julian Cash, Andy Murray, Davis Cup, #DavisCup, Alexander Zverez, Carlos Alvarez, Jannik Sinner, Lloyd Glasspool, International Tennis Federation, Zizou Bergs, ITF, Raphael Collignon, Corentin Moutet, Ross Hutchins.
