Felix Auger-Aliassime on Saturday pulled double duty to lead Canada into the Davis Cup final against Australia after orchestrating a 2-1 comeback win over Italy.
World No. 6 Auger-Aliassime first defeated Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-4 after Lorenzo Sonego had earlier beaten Denis Shapovalov 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (5/7), 6-4 in the opening rubber of the semi-final.
The 22-year-old Canadian then replaced the out-of-form Shapovalov to partner Vasek Pospisil in the decisive doubles and the gamble paid off in a 7-6 (7/2), 7-5 win over Matteo Berrettini and Fabio Fognini.
Photo: AFP
Berrettini, ranked 16 in singles, but only 827 in doubles, replaced Simone Bolelli, but the late switch by skipper Filippo Volandri backfired.
Canada, runners-up to Spain in 2019, are to attempt to win the Davis Cup for the first time. Australia have not played in the final since 2003 when they claimed a 28th title.
In a doubles clash which lasted two hours, the Italians were made to regret surrendering early breaks in both sets.
The Canadian duo broke decisively for 6-5 in the second set before sealing their spot in the championship match leaving Italy still stuck on one Davis Cup title won back in 1976.
“We knew we could make changes if we needed to,” Auger-Aliassime said.
“The whole team have connected around this idea — the main goal of lifting the cup on Sunday. There are no egos and it’s a great feeling.”
Canada captain Frank Dancevic said he opted for Auger-Aliassime in the doubles as he was the fresher player.
“Vasek, he plays amazing with both Denis and Felix,” he said.
“Denis just played a really long match today. Felix was more fresh. He was feeling great on court. He was fresh going into the match. That was sort of the thought behind the decision,” he said. “Denis really left his heart out today. Played a 3 hour, 15 minute match. It was tough coming back to play doubles today when we had Felix who was fresh.”
Italy skipper Filippo Volandri revealed that the late inclusion of Berrettini was sparked by injury to the veteran Bolelli.
“I’m really proud of all members of the team, because when I ask them to try to do something, they always do. That’s why I’m really proud of them,” he added.
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