MEET THE CAPTAIN – Horia Tecau
It was mission accomplished for Horia Tecau as he guided Romania into the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Malaga, but he will want more now.
Former doubles world No. 2 Tecau became Romania’s new Billie Jean King Cup captain in 2022, just a year after he called time on his playing career.
Tecau is a three-time Grand Slam champion having won the men’s doubles titles at both 2015 Wimbledon and the 2017 Open, and the mixed doubles crown at the 2012 Australian Open.
He won a silver medal for Romania in men’s doubles at the 2016 Rio Olympics and competed in 29 Davis Cup ties for his country, compiling a 20-11 win-loss record.
Adapting to coaching the Romania team in the Billie Jean King Cup has been a challenge, but one he has relished.
“I loved playing in the Davis Cup and it is a different energy when we play these ties,” said Tecau. “Loving this competition and this format of tennis gives me an idea of what is needed in this job.
“There is a lot more to do as a captain and you need to organise a lot of people to work together, but it is a great experience.
“These girls are role models for lots of Romanians who watch sport and we want to achieve everything possible.”
WHO’S IN THE TEAM?
With former world No 1 Simona Halep struggling with injury in recent months, Romania captain Tecau is heading to Malaga with a collection of players who have built up a good bond in the Billie Jean King Cup.
Jaqueline Cristian, Ana Bogdan, Elena Gabriela Ruse, Alexia Anca Todoni and the highly experienced Monica Niculescu are heading to Malaga with high hopes of causing a few upsets.
Cristian has an 8-3 winning record in this competition, with Bogan holding a 6-4 winning record.
Niculescu will look to continue her record-breaking Billie Jean King Cup and improve on her 33-22 winning record.