Bath-based tennis player Toby Samuel has secured a place as the fifth member of Great Britain’s Davis Cup team for the upcoming tie against Ecuador. The 23-year-old earned his debut call-up from captain Leon Smith after impressive performances at the US Open, where he successfully qualified and advanced to the second round.
Samuel was selected ahead of higher-ranked Jan Choinski and more experienced Jacob Fearnley, who also reached the second round at Flushing Meadows. He will join team members Arthur Fery, Cam Norrie, and doubles specialists Henry Patten and Lloyd Glasspool for the matches scheduled on 19 and 20 September at London’s Copper Box Arena.
Speaking from New York, where he has been observing the British players, Smith highlighted Samuel’s rapid development. “Toby’s rate of progress in the last 12 to 18 months has been excellent. He won a Challenger event on hard courts this summer and performed strongly here,” said Smith. “It was a tough choice, but I believe Toby is a good fit for this occasion. He brings significant power with a big forehand and a solid setup, as well as commendable movement. Spending a week practising alongside Cam and Arthur will benefit him greatly.”