Russia’s captain Marat Safin believes that he has the ‘dream team’ at the ATP Cup 2020. Safin also predicts that Russia will be the future champions of the ATP Cup. The former World No.1 is really happy with the team and is proud to be part of a great team. However, why does Marat Safin feels that Russia is the best team at the 24-team competition?
Under the guidance of Marat Safin, Daniil Medvedev and Karen Khachanov lead an experienced Team Russia at the inaugural ATP Cup 2020. The team also includes former Top 50 player Teymuraz Gabashvili, Ivan Nedelko and Konstantin Kravchuk. Russia is drawn with Italy, the United States and Norway in Group D.
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“I believe in them”: Marat Safin
The 2-time Grand Slam feels that the close bonding between the team members and a happy atmosphere in the locker room makes Russia one of the best teams in the tournament.
“I don’t lie. When I lie, I’m saying the truth even (laughter). I honestly believe in them, the way they are, because they’re close to each other, the players. They play games together, they play cards, they play all the time something, which is good, the good vibe in the team. This is the key to success,” Safin said in an interview in Perth.
He further added: “They support each other. They joke around. It’s a good atmosphere, which I’m happy about. I want to just be helpful in this atmosphere, not to destroy it. They are the stars of the team and they should be. That’s why it’s a Dream Team.”
Also Read: ATP Cup 2020: Daniil Medvedev Defeats Fabio Fognini in a Thrilling Match to Win Tie Against Italy
Medvedev and Khachanov stars as Russia wins the first tie
Daniil Medvedev and Karen Khachanov helped Team Russia earn a sweeping victory in their Group D opener against Italy on Friday in Perth. Khachanov got the early lead after defeating Stefano Travaglia in the first singles rubber. Medvedev then fended off a stern test against Fabio Fognini to clinch a victory against Italy in the second singles match.
In the doubles, Medvedev and Khachanov teamed up to complete a 3-0 victory after beating Italy’s Simone Bolelli and Paolo Lorenzi.
