Marin Cilic drags Croatia into Davis Cup final

Author: app/afp

ZADAR: Marin Cilic’s three set victory over Richard Gasquet gave them an unquestionable 3-1 lead over nine-time champions France as Croatia sealed their ticket to the Davis Cup final.

Croatia, titleholders only once in 2005, will face the winner of the other semi-final between holders Great Britain and Argentina in the November final.

Croatia will face the winner of the other semi-final between Cup-holders Great Britain and Argentina.

Cilic bagged the all-important point in the first of Sunday’s reverse singles, seeing off Gasquet 6-3, 6-2, 7-5.

“When you look at the atmosphere, it’s an incredible feeling. It’s been a dream weekend for us,” said 2014 US Open winner Cilic. “I played incredible tennis. I produced a great performance for the crowd.”

Gasquet, 17th in the world, was drafted in after Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Gael Monfils pulled out with knee injuries. The 30-year-old, initially overlooked by captain Yannick Noah after struggling with back and chest injuries, claimed the opening singles 6-2, 7-6 (7/5), 6-1 against Borna Coric.

But world number 11 Cilic hit back against Lucas Pouille 6-1, 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 6-2 to put Croatia level.

Croatia’s previous Davis Cup success came 11 years ago at the expense of Slovakia.

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