Leon Smith – Andy Murray “Right” to Miss Davis Cup Quarter-Final

British tennis coach Leon Smith said Andy Murray is right to rest and not play Serbia in this weekend’s Davis Cup quarter-final in Belgrade. The world No. 2 singles player was named in the team last week, but after winning Wimbledon on Sunday, he admitted that it was doubtful he would play the tie.

Murray has not missed a Davis Cup tie for more than three years. Smith, who captained Great Britain to their 2015 Davis Cup victory, said this date is a nightmare for everyone. It’s a big commitment for all the players to be here, to have to switch surface yet again. He further added that it’s a shame that the best players won’t be playing again.

the Davis Cup

Davis Cup Squad

Kyle Edmund, who made his Davis Cup debut in 2015, was also chosen to play the singles holder for Great Britain. Edmund lost to Belgium’s David Goffin in Davis Cup final opener last year. James Ward is also among the initial five-man team. The team includes:

  • James Ward
  • Dan Evans
  • Jamie Murray
  • Dom Inglot
  • Kyle Edmund

Although Murray is not playing, Smith is hoping to see him fly to Serbia to support his team-mates. The quarter-final will start on Friday, 15 July 2016, at Tasmajdan Stadium. Smith also told BBC Sport that he thinks Murray has earned the right to miss the tie. He concluded by saying they are looking forward to playing and if they manage to win, it would be even sweeter.

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Nigel Frith