U.S. Keep Davis Cup Hopes Alive In Doubles Thriller

Steve Johnson and Jack Sock combined to keep the United States in the hunt for a Davis Cup semi-final spot with a 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 2-6, 6-3 triumph over Australian duo Sam Groth and John Peers.

The hosts led the contest 2-0 following Friday’s singles at the Pat Rafter Arena in Brisbane, but had their advantage halved by Johnson and Sock, who clinched a Bronze Medal together at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

“Jordan (Thompson) played great yesterday, he deserved to win, he was the better player,” said Sock. “But today we were able to regroup and get a win.”

Jim Courier’s American side must prevail in both singles matches on Sunday to progress to the semi-finals for the first time since 2012.

“I’m super proud of these guys today but it still will take a monstrous effort from us on day three,” said Courier.

World No. 16 Nick Kyrgios is scheduled to face Sock in the fourth rubber, before a possible deciding contest between Jordan Thompson and John Isner.

“The way he (Kyrgios) played yesterday, he’s going to have a lot of confidence going out there,” said Australia’s captain Lleyton Hewitt. “Whoever he’s up against is going to be a tough match. He knows that. He’s our leader and we’re going to back him to go out there and play well.”