David Ferrer, born in Xàbia on April 2, 1982, begins a new chapter as the captain of the Spanish Davis Cup team this Wednesday in Valencia. The former top player, who stepped away from professional tennis in May 2019, is back in the spotlight but now in a leadership role. His marked resilience and tenacity helped Spain lift the Davis Cup trophy three times on the court (2008, 2009, 2011). His record of 28 wins and 5 losses across 20 rubbers remains one of the strongest among Spanish players in Davis Cup history. Feliciano López, the competition’s current director and a five-time winner, has full faith in Ferrer’s leadership, saying that Spain could not have a better captain and that his win record is exceptional in the Davis Cup arena.
Spain – Czech Republic: Had to take the first blow in the Davis Cup
Today marks the premiere of the home campaign and the crowd at La Fonteta is expected to be a decisive factor for Spain as they aim for the Malaga Finals. The Valencia faithful are seen as a crucial weapon, especially after last year’s strong support and the hope that the home atmosphere will lift the team again this week amid challenging qualifiers against Novak Djokovic and the Czech Republic, followed by Serbia, ahead of them.
Ferrer returns to Valencia, a city that holds a special memory for him. It was here, in a five-set, five-hour battle against Kohlschreiber, that Spain secured a path to the semi-finals in 2018. That victory remains a cherished moment in his Davis Cup journey, not merely for the outcome but for what it represented in his career. The moment he felt the old spark return, the sense of being at the top again, is a memory he cherishes deeply.
“The win against Kohlschreiber at the Bullring remains a fond memory. It signaled a personal vindication and a revival of past feelings.”
Four years after stepping away from competition, Ferrer continues to stay closely connected to tennis. He runs an academy in Xàbia, manages events around the Godó tournament, once supervised Davis Cup duties, and now serves as Spain’s captain. The shift to a leadership role has brought about a different rhythm, with the same passion for the sport but a new focus on guidance, development, and team cohesion rather than personal results. He notes that this transition is neither better nor worse, simply distinct, offering balance between family time and professional responsibilities while staying deeply embedded in the sport.
When asked about his new duties, Ferrer emphasizes teamwork and training as priorities. The goal is to build a strong unit that can perform well in the Davis Cup format, with the conviction that a united team increases the chances of success. He acknowledges the dream of lifting the title again, yet keeps the emphasis on continuous work behind the scenes to raise the team’s level.
Regarding the possibility of fielding players in singles against the Czech Republic, Ferrer hints at clear plans but does not disclose specific lineups. He confirms that the team already has a solid understanding of who will be ready to compete and contribute when called upon.
Questions about the potential return of Rafael Nadal for the championship final later in the year are addressed with cautious optimism. Ferrer says the team has not yet reached the final stage and will focus on advancing first. If progress allows, discussions with Nadal will follow to assess his condition. The captain stresses that reaching the final is the primary objective, and appearances can be evaluated afterward.
When pressed about whether Nadal’s absence or Djokovic’s Serbia might set the bar too high, Ferrer responds that the current squad is strong. He points to a diverse group capable of competing with any opponent and views the team as among the best in Davis Cup, capable of challenging the leading teams when the moment arrives.
“Spain fields a very capable squad ready to push for the Finals and to compete with any opponent.”
Fans are curious about Bautista’s readiness and the singles strategy against the Czechs. Ferrer indicates that Rober Bautista will be prepared to contribute as soon as possible, though he doesn’t reveal the exact singles plan yet. The team’s direction is clear, and the captain’s focus is on preparing players to deliver strong performances when needed.
Asked about Nadal and the possibility of his return for the finals on November 21, Ferrer reiterates that the priority is to reach the Final Eight first. Once there, a conversation with Nadal will be appropriate to assess his fitness and potential involvement. Until qualification is secured, his primary objective remains unchanged.
In response to questions about Djokovic and Serbia as the group favorite, Ferrer concedes that on paper the team appears strongest, but the nature of the Davis Cup format leaves room for surprises. He highlights the importance of match balance and doubles performance. He suggests that adjustments to the schedule could make the event more appealing, such as weekend fixtures to accommodate fans who work during the week.