Israel’s tennis team in surprise win over Japan in Davis Cup, moves to finals playoff

Team scores 3:2 win in Tel Aviv, coming back from behind to snatch victory at the end of five singles matches

By ToI Staff 17 September 2023, 11:09 pm Edit

Israel's national tennis team celebrates after defeating Japan in the Davis Cup, September 17, 2023. (Israel Tennis Association)

Israel’s national tennis team scored a surprise win against Japan in the prestigious Davis Cup Sunday, advancing to playoffs that could see it reach the tournament’s final 16.

Israel finished the day with a 3:2 win against Japan in Tel Aviv, coming back from behind to snatch victory at the end of the five singles matches.

Saturday had seen the two teams draw at 1:1, but Israel fell behind on Sunday 2:1, before players Daniel Zukerman and Yishai Oliel both won their respective matches to secure a win for the national team.

Japan’s chances of reaching the finals have been reduced dramatically, though it will still have a chance to save itself, facing other teams.

Meanwhile, Israel’s next rival will be determined later this week.