Greece defeat Philippines in Davis Cup

After taking a commanding 2-0 lead after the first day of play, Greece looked to clinch the win on Saturday in Manila. Markos Kalovelonis and Petros Tsitsipas teamed up to represent Greece in the doubles match, while the host team fielded Frances Casey Alcantara and Ruben Gonzales.

The Greek duo went up a break in the first set to take a 4-3 lead, but they were immediately broken in the subsequent game. The Filipino pair ultimately won the set in a tiebreak (7-5), converting on their fifth set point. The Greek team then took an early 3-1 lead in the second set, but Alcantara and Gonzales came from behind to win the set 6-4 and reduce Greece’s overall lead to 2-1 in the tie.

World number six Stefanos Tsitsipas then took on Filipino Jeson Patrombon (world number 1421). Tsitsipas dominated the match, winning 6-2 6-1 to clinch the win for Greece. The 21-year-old from Athens now holds a perfect 6-0 record in Davis Cup singles matches without dropping a set.

Petros Tsitsipas (world number 1169) then faced Eric Jr. Olivarez (world number 1590) of the Philippines. The Greek won the first set 6-4, but later trailed 2-4 in the second set. However, the 19-year-old was able to turn the set around and win it 7-5, giving Greece a 4-1 win overall.

Having advanced, Greece will play in the World Group II in September. Greece’s opponent is still to be determined.

GREECE 4, PHILIPPINES 1:

• Stefanos Tsitsipas (Greece) def. Alberto Lim (Philippines) 6-2 6-1
• Petros Tsitsipas (Greece) def. Jeson Patrombon (Philippines) 6-2 6-1
• Alcantara/Gonzales (Philippines) def. Kalovelonis/P.Tsitsipas (Greece) 7-6(5) 6-4
• Stefanos Tsitsipas (Greece) def. Jeson Patrombon (Philippines) 6-2 6-1
• Petros Tsitsipas (Greece) def. Eric Jr. Olivarez (Philippines) 6-4 7-5

by Andrew Stamas

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