Israel Davis Cup Team Named for Slovenia Clash

The Israeli and Slovenian Davis Cup teams have been announced for their upcoming World Group II tie, scheduled for September 18-19 in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The Israeli squad, led by captain Yoni Ehrlich, will feature Amit Weintraub (ranked 598 globally), Yair Shimon (729), Oren Shimon (937), Daniel Zuckerman (131 in doubles), and Ben Winteraub. For 22-year-old Winteraub, currently playing for Arkansas University, this marks his debut call-up to the senior national team.

The Slovenian team, captained by Grega Žemlja, includes Filip Juž Planišček (502), Bor Artnak (505), Žiga Šeško (704), and Sebastian Dominko (966). The tie will be played on outdoor clay courts, with matches commencing at 2:00 PM Israel time on both days. The draw for the match order will take place on Thursday, September 17.

In a coaching change, Yoni Ehrlich thanked outgoing professional staff Yoav Shev and Yoav Ben-Tzvi, who are concluding their long tenures. Yonatan Krovni has been appointed as the new Davis Cup coach. Ehrlich welcomed Winteraub's inclusion, noting his significant progress and positive contribution to the team. He also expressed gratitude to the previous staff and confidence in Krovni, who has worked with many of the players.

Ehrlich described the upcoming tie as "critical" and "very challenging," highlighting the team's return to clay court play after a long absence. He emphasized the importance of thorough preparation to ensure the players are in peak condition for the crucial weekend. The captain concluded with a wish for a happy new year and success for the team, ending with the rallying cry "Al Al Israel!"