Kafelnikov and Safin believe that ATP Cup run for Team Russia could kickstart 2020: "Getting to the final or winning the event could help make their year"

Kafelnikov believes that it could pave the way for a good year; especially the duo of Daniil Medvedev and Karen Khachanov.

Safin said that it is important that for Medvedev and Khachanov, they are guaranteed multiple matches on the court; as well they are able to practise day in day out which gives a good footing for 2020.

“It’s very important. The way my year in Australia went was often how the rest of the year went,” Kafelnikov said. “Getting to the final or winning the event could help make their year.”

“It's a perfect setup for this event at the beginning of the year. All the guys are already in Australia and they want to start with a good step in the new year,” Safin said.

“You are guaranteed three matches and you have two groups playing in the same spot, so you have a chance to practise day and night to get ready for the beginning of the season. To win with your team at the beginning of the year, I think it’s pretty cool.”