By Alexandra Willis

27 October 2010

Former world No.1 Jim Courier has been selected as the new US Davis Cup captain, following Patrick McEnroe’s resignation last month. The four-time Grand Slam champion, who helped his country lift Dwight Davis’ famous trophy in 1992 and 1995, announced his interest in the role as soon as it became clear that McEnroe’s 10-year tenure as captain was coming to an end, pipping Todd Martin and MaliVai Washington to the position.

The fiery 40-year-old American’s appointment has received positive acclaim from all corners. Andy Roddick, who with a 31-11win-loss record remains the current team’s most prolific Davis Cup individual, tweeted “jim courier new davis cup captain…. great choice!” McEnroe also tweeted his congratulations to his successor.

McEnroe, the younger brother of seven-time Grand Slam champion John, led the USA to their first Davis Cup win in 12 years when the team of Roddick, James Blake, Bob and Mike Bryan won the title in 2007. Having announced his intention to step down to dedicate more time to his family and other pursuits, McEnroe’s final tie as captain saw the USA defeat Colombia 3-1 to remain in the World Group.

British fans will remember Courier’s performance for the USA when they took on Great Britain in the Davis Cup at the NEC Birmingham Arena in March 1999. Courier steered Team USA to a 3-2 victory over the host nation, defeating Tim Henman in five sets, and then winning the deciding fifth and final rubber 8-6 in the fifth against Greg Rusedski.

Courier’s first match in charge will be against Chile in the first round of the Davis Cup World Group from 4-6 March 2011.

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