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Is optimistic: Alexander Zverev in Hamburg
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CATHRIN MUELLER / REUTERS
The German tennis men are relying on the recently injured Alexander Zverev and Oscar Otte in the Davis Cup for the intermediate round in Hamburg.
In addition to the two top players, team boss Michael Kohlmann also nominated Jan-Lennard Struff and the doubles specialists Kevin Krawietz and Tim Pütz.
"I am convinced that it is a powerful team that can qualify for the finals in Malaga," said Kohlmann at the presentation.
There are "a few question marks" due to the recent injuries to Zverev and Otte, but he is "in good spirits".
Olympic champion Zverev, who recently made his diabetes public, confirmed his commitment to a start last week.
The second in the world rankings underwent surgery in early June after tearing a triple ligament in his right ankle.
He was "very confident" that Zverev would be fit for the Davis Cup in time, said Kohlmann about the 25-year-old, who is also hoping to start at the US Open.
"I would put a few question marks behind whether he can do it," said the Davis Cup captain.
Otte is aiming for the US Open
Like Zverev, Oscar Otte is back on the tennis court after an operation on the inner meniscus four weeks ago.
The knee feels "mega stable," said the 29-year-old.
"We're on the right track, things are looking very good for the Davis Cup." Participation in the last Grand Slam tournament of the year in New York from August 29 is "very realistic", Otte will focus on the trying to get a flight to New York in the next few days.
In the Davis Cup intermediate round at Rothenbaum in Hamburg, it's against France (September 14), Belgium (September 16) and Australia (September 18).
The top two teams in each group advance to the quarter-finals, which, like the full knockout stages, take place in Malaga from November 21-27.
If Zverev or Otte don't get fit, Kohlmann could nominate players.
In the round of the best eight teams, the selection of the German Tennis Association as the group winner could face a clash with Spain or Serbia.
