France v Switzerland, 2014 Davis Cup Final, 21-23 November
France will host Switzerland in an all European clash in the Davis Cup 2014 Final. The array of talent on both sides makes for a mouth-watering clash and the French Tennis Federation has opted for the Stade Pierre Mauroy in Lille to host the Final. Taking place across 5 rubbers from the 21 to 23 November, the tie will be on clay. The stadium can seat more than 27,000 spectators and is expected to be at capacity across all three days. It is an indoor court with a retractable roof and is therefore ready for all conditions.
a big part of the decision [to play on clay] will have been looking to neutralise the threat of Roger Federer
The choice of clay is an interesting one. A big part of the decision will have been looking to neutralise the threat of Roger Federer and Stan Wawrinka, both of whom are aggressive players who favour faster conditions. Federer and Wawrinka will likely play two singles each if required and could well reunite their Beijing Gold Medal winning partnership for the crucial doubles. They beat Italy 3-2 in the semi-finals, with Federer winning both his singles and he will look to do the same against France.
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The French team is also filled with quality. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga ought to be a guaranteed pick on both singles rubbers. Richard Gasquet has famously found it hard performing in front of a home crowd, but if this is the case then Gael Monfils will be more than happy to step in. He thrives on the big occasion and it would be great to see him get a chance in the Davis Cup Final.
France lead the head to head with Switzerland 10-2, although the nations haven’t met since 2004. Federer in particular will be hugely motivated to win the Davis Cup Final for the first time, as it is the only major trophy he has not lifted.
Who do you think will win the Davis Cup Final? What do you think of the decision to play on clay? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter.
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