Pairs-France’s Davis Cup campaign came to a disappointing end on Friday, as Carlos Alcaraz’s dominant performance led Spain to a convincing 2-0 victory in Valencia. Alcaraz, the world’s third-ranked player, dispatched Ugo Humbert 6-3, 6-3, securing Spain’s spot in the Final 8 alongside Australia.
Earlier, Arthur Fils’ loss to Roberto Bautista put France on the back foot, and Humbert was unable to mount a comeback against the in-form Alcaraz. This marks France’s fourth consecutive failure to advance beyond the group stage since the Davis Cup’s reform in 2019.
Spain and Australia have both secured two wins in Group B, setting up a thrilling showdown on Sunday to determine the group winner. Alcaraz was ecstatic about his team’s qualification, saying, “It was our goal from the start of the week, and I’m really happy with my performance today.”
In other Davis Cup action, the United States swept Slovakia 3-0 in Zhuhai, with Mackenzie McDonald and Brandon Nakashima delivering convincing singles wins. Germany also advanced to the Final 8, and will face the US on Saturday to determine their seeding for the Malaga finals.
The US team, led by Bob Bryan, has been impressive despite missing top players Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe. Nakashima, ranked 40th, emphasized the importance of qualifying, saying, “It means a lot to be in this position and clinch that spot.”
The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the group stage, with Italy facing Belgium in Group A and Great Britain taking on Argentina in Group D. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Final 8 in Malaga, held from November 19-24.
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