Israel defeat South Africa in vital Davis Cup tennis tie
Harel Levy's side claim crucial win in Pretoria, as BDS South Africa led anti-Israeli protests outside the venue
Israel moved a step closer to regaining its place in the Davis Cup World Group as it won its first away match in the tournament for nearly four years, defeating South Africa 3-2.
The country’s went into final day level at 1-1. Edan Leshem lost the first rubber, beaten by Lloyd Harris 7-5 6-4, but Dudi Sela leveled the match, beating Nik Scholtz 6-1 6-7, 7-5.
The Israelis then found themselves up against it on Saturday, as Sela and Jonathan Erlich lost the doubles to Raven Klaasen and Ruan Roelofse 5-7 6-4 6-4. However, Sela beat Harris 7-6, 6-1, before Leshem clinched the tie, beating Scholtz 6-3, 7-5.
Captain Harel Levy said: “Obviously we are happy with the win and credit to my players who delivered. Dudi Sela had to play eight sets in less than 24 hours and that was a big ask. I was hoping after the doubles we would need only one point but we lost the doubles, Dudi only had 30 minutes to shower, eat and recover – and hats off to him for coming back on court and beating Harris the way he did.”
Israel next visits the Czech Republic, over the weekend of 6-7 April, the winner advancing to the World Group playoffs.
While not affecting the action on the court, BDS South Africa, together with several anti-Israel organisations, held a protest outside the match venue.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
