By Jack Massey
Peter Luczak, the highest profile member of Australia’s new-look Davis Cup squad, believes that their underdog status is an advantage in the lead-up to this weekend’s tie against Chile.
Whilst the Chilean team includes stars such as World No.9 Fernando Gonzalez and Athens Olympic gold medallist Nicholas Massu, the clay-court specialist says they are settling well, before the World Group play-off on the clay-courts of Antofagasta.
“We’re Aussies, we love being battlers and it’s a nice feeling playing with no expectations so there’s no reason why we can’t pull of an upset,” he said.
However, after a three and a half month lay-off with a fractured pelvis, Luczak appreciates just being able to play again.
“The doctors I spoke to said they hadn’t seen anything like it, other than in a car accident victim. It was tough but it was also nice at the same time to be able to spend some time with my family,” Luczak said.
Despite his world ranking slipping to No.178, his 1-1 career record against Gonzalez means he is eager for the chance to pull off an upset.