Harris Delivers Stellar Davis Cup Debut to Secure GB Victory.

Tennis General

Harris Delivers Stellar Davis Cup Debut to Secure GB Victory.

Billy Harris delivered an exceptional Davis Cup debut, helping Great Britain start their quest for the knockout stage on a high note, even without the rested Jack Draper.

Late-blooming Billy Harris, who previously drove to small tournaments in a van and earned his first ATP Tour win last year, secured an opening victory against Finland in the group stage. 

The 29-year-old delivered a calm and decisive 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) win over Otto Virtanen, giving Great Britain an unbeatable 2-0 lead.

US Open semi-finalist Jack Draper cheered from the sidelines after sitting out the tie following his New York performance. 

Harris' win came after Dan Evans, 34, defeated Eero Vasa 7-6 (7-3), 6-2 to put Britain ahead in Manchester.

British captain Leon Smith praised Harris, calling his debut one of the best ever seen. "Billy could have won more easily; he was outstanding," Smith said. "Despite not having played on a big stage before, he was unshaken and impressive."