Felix Auger-Aliassime describes Davis Cup Finals as a special event

The 19-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime made the Davis Cup Finals debut in Madrid 2019, facing Roberto Bautista Agut in the title clash and losing in straight sets.

Denis Shapovalov and Vasek Pospisil had played the previous singles rubbers and carried Canada into the final before Felix got a chance to defend the national colors against the mighty host team. Auger-Aliassime stepped in instead of Pospisil in the final, giving his best against the more experienced rival, who beat him to propel Spain in front. Speaking about that week, Felix said it was a unique event with the world's best players defending their countries' colors and playing at 100% in every match.

"For the Canadian players, the Davis Cup Finals event is the world cup of tennis, like those you have in football or basketball. You fight for your country and always want to deliver your best. It brings exciting matches and special emotions. The Davis Cup Finals'Finals' tension was very high; we had all the best players competing simultaneously at the same venue. It was great for the fans too.

It was remarkable to represent my country with my teammates and friends. We played well and had a chance to fight against Spain in the final; that's one of my best memories from the court. Vasek Pospisil has always been a great friend; I would even say a big brother. We have a special relationship, and he is like a family to me. Denis Shapovalov is a complete player; he doesn't have weaknesses with explosive serve and groundstrokes. I would describe him as cold-blooded.

He is a killer on the court, not scared of anybody, not even Rafa in front of 12,000 people in Madrid. I never heard a crowd like in Madrid 2019. Your anthem is on, and you feel goosebumps. When the Spanish team entered the court, it was something I never felt before. I didn't play bad; you could feel there's something special around Roberto Bautista Agut, who just lost his father. When he needed it, he found that extra gear and beat me in straight sets.

We were very proud, standing on the podium with a team like Spain. For sure, it was tough to accept the defeat; I think the whole team was a bit down. After the match, we wanted to regroup and leave in the locker room, thinking about the future. At the same time, we appreciated what we did that week, stand proudly on the podium with the young and promising team," Felix Auger-Aliassime said.