It can be challenging for team leaders to guarantee access to their players, even when those players are in peak physical condition. This is because Davis Cup competitions frequently occur in the week immediately following a Grand Slam tournament.
Andy Murray participated infrequently for a three-year duration in his early twenties, at a time when Great Britain was not part of the World Group. However, Smith expresses optimism that Draper will maintain his desire to compete for the team.
“I perceive a genuine enthusiasm among the players to engage with this,” he stated.
“We, within the LTA, and the players present here, demonstrate a clear appreciation for this, a value in coming together as a unit.
“Our primary objective this weekend is to maintain our position within the leading group, thereby enhancing our prospects of winning next year. However, further discussions are undeniably necessary regarding scheduling adjustments, with the aim of accommodating players who progress deep into the Slams.
“If the desire is for their participation, requesting their availability with only a few days’ notice – sometimes involving considerable travel distances or surface transitions – is likely to present difficulties.
“Thus, my impression is that there’s a significant inclination to represent one’s nation in the Davis Cup, but adjustments to the structure are required.”
A torn bicep and an illness have kept Norrie out of Davis Cup competition since the quarter-final match against Serbia in 2023.
The 30-year-old athlete has already competed in 22 tournaments this year, yet he describes Davis Cup weeks as being “distinctly different”.
“It consistently ranks among my preferred weeks, as it involves competing for one’s country,” he conveyed.
“The camaraderie among the group of both male and female players is exceptional – it aligns perfectly with my aspirations.
“The experience during that week diverges significantly from a typical week on the tour. It serves almost as a period of recuperation – it’s a particularly valuable interval.
“One could opt for rest, practice, or participation in another tournament. Nevertheless, I consistently endeavor to prioritize this aspect throughout my career.”
