NEW DELHI: Team World clinched their second consecutive Laver Cup title in a nail-biting fashion as Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe secured a thrilling doubles victory over Team Europe's Andrey Rublev and Hubert Hurkacz with a score of 7-6(4) 7-6(5).
The American duo, who had faced each other earlier this month in the quarter-finals of the U.S. Open, demonstrated impeccable teamwork to claim a crucial win on the final day of the Laver Cup. Their victory, overseen by captain John McEnroe, propelled Team World to a commanding 13 points and dashed any lingering hopes for Team Europe.
Team World set the tone early in the competition, surging to a 4-0 lead on the first day and further extending their dominance to 10-2 over Team Europe by the conclusion of Saturday's matches.
While Team Europe had been the reigning champions for the first four editions of the Laver Cup, Team World disrupted that streak last year in London when they emerged victorious. Notably, that tournament marked the farewell to Roger Federer's illustrious career, with the Swiss legend watching this year's event as a spectator.
Frances Tiafoe, who played a pivotal role in last year's victory, once again delivered a standout performance for Team World. Reflecting on his experience, he expressed, "Yeah, it was very special being part of that last year; it was so emotional, for being my first time. Now with Ben, it's a lot of fun, and I hope you guys have enjoyed the match."
Ben Shelton, Tiafoe's partner in this crucial doubles win, added, "It's been crazy for me. I enjoyed being in a team environment; they did a great job cheering me on all week, and I hope I did a good job cheering them on as well."
Team World will have their sights set on retaining their title next year when the Laver Cup heads to Berlin for another exciting edition of this prestigious tennis event.
(With Reuters inputs)
