United States beats Germany to remain perfect in Davis Cup

A second-round American team continued its Davis Cup winning streak by beating Germany to top Group C in Zhuhai, China. Both countries had secured a place in the quarterfinals.

The 32-time winners were without big names such as US Open runner-up Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe in the group stage this week, but still had enough firepower to beat Germany and claim their third straight victory.

Brandon Nakashima gave the Americans an insurmountable 2-0 lead by easily defeating Maximilian Marterer 6-4, 6-2 in the second singles match of the day.

“It’s been incredible this whole week. It’s special to be part of this team,” said Nakashima, who secured his third victory of his debut campaign to remain perfect. “It’s always been a dream of mine to represent the country since I started playing tennis, so I’m super happy to get three wins on the board for the team.”

World No. 309 Reilly Opelka, who is back on the circuit after hip and wrist surgery, saved three match points and pressed his serve at the right time to beat Henri Squire 6-7 (4), 7-6 (9), 6-3 earlier in the day.

The top two countries from four groups in different cities will advance to the knockout stage, which will be held in Malaga, Spain in November.

Heavyweights Spain and Australia have also qualified, as have the United States and Germany.

Belgium will face Brazil in Bologna (Italy) and will then hope to progress to Group A. Finland, last year’s surprising semi-finalist, will face Argentina in Manchester (England) and must win to stay in Group D.