Davis Cup - USA v Chile live preview

Davis Cup - USA v Chile live preview

Andy Roddick lead the American challenge in the first round of the Davis Cup this weekend against Chile.

There is quite a spirit of optimism ahead of America's Davis Cup campaign this year with popular and charismatic new captain Jim Courier at the helm. The Americans have their strongest side out for the tie with Roddick, John Isner and the Bryan brothers making up their squad.

However the South American sides are notoriously tough to beat at home and Chile have predictably laid a super slow clay court in Santiago in a bid to counteract the huge serves of Roddick and Isner.

However the Chilean squad is very weak and they are badly missing the injured Fernando Gonzalez. Ever a team player, Gonzalez is training with the squad this week but it is too soon for him to return to competitive action. Chile will be hoping that Paul Capdeville (ranked 165) and former Olympic champion Nicolas Massu (now ranked down at 241) can recapture former glory.

However, neither Roddick or Isner have a strong clay court pedigree. Roddick hates the surface though he does come into the tie on a confidence high after winning Memphis a couple of weeks ago. However Isner has been struggling for form.

As ever, the Bryan brothers are sure to be a jewel in America's crown. Clay is their weakest surface but they have still won the French Open doubles title in the past as well as making the final two more times.