Davis Cup: Rodionov Secures Austria Ticket for "Final 8"

Austria defeats Belgium in the Davis Cup and secures its ticket for the "Final 8" in Bologna.

Jurij Rodionov manages to win the fourth match against Belgium. He triumphs in the singles against Zizou Bergs 7:6 (6), 6:3.

The duel began with a nerve-wracking service game from the Austrian. He quickly went up 40:0 but promptly conceded the equalizer. The opponents alternately gained advantage. Rodionov ultimately asserted himself with his serve and took the first game.

Break Followed by Rebreak

Subsequently, both players held their serves—until 3:2. The Austrian secured the break and pulled ahead to 4:2. With an immediate rebreak, however, Bergs managed to narrow the lead to 4:3 again and finally leveled the score.

The encounter, much like the doubles match of Oberleitner/Miedler, was hard-fought. At 5:5, Rodionov was able to save a break point from Bergs with an ace and ultimately secured the important game for himself.

First Set Goes to Tie-Break

The ÖTV player then had a great opportunity for the decisive break and to win the first set, but squandered a 40:15 lead. Thus, it went into a tie-break.

Both players appeared prone to errors at the start. At 5:6, the Belgian had a set point, but could not convert it. Rodionov came back and impressively also earned a decisive opportunity. Bergs granted the first set to the Austrian with a double fault.

Break Leads to Bergs' Outburst of Rage

Early in the second set, Rodionov got the first break. Similar to the start of the match, Bergs came back this time as well and managed the rebreak.

Rodionov's opponent slowly lost his nerve. The Austrian secured the next break, whereupon Bergs angrily threw his racket into the clay. The same action repeated itself at 3:1 for the ÖTV player.

He, however, continued his run for now. At 5:1, the decision seemed to have been made, but Bergs fought his way back to 5:3. But that was it. Rodionov secured the second set and the match with a 6:3 score.

Austria thus qualifies for the second time for the tournament of the best eight nations. The draw for it will take place on Tuesday.