“What Kostyuk won’t play…” Captain and players of Austria – about the match with Ukraine

Tamira Pashek: “Tsurenko is a very experienced tennis player, we are almost the same age. So I’ve known her for a long time. She is very good with her feet, she plays well, she has a fairly flat shot, but she can also add variety. It will definitely be an interesting match. I will try to do everything in my power, show a lot of varied game, but at the same time remain aggressive, play active tennis. And then we will see what will come of it. The fact that Kostyuk will not play significantly increases our chances. But no matter what, as Marion Maruska and Jürgen Meltzer (sports director of the Austrian Tennis Federation and captain of the team in the Davis Cup) already said, we are still underdogs in this meeting, if you look at the rating. Our preparation was excellent, we practiced well, we were warmly welcomed. A really warm welcome right from the first day. We feel at home. Of course, I am very glad that I will compete again as part of my national team.”

Signa Kraus: “The conditions are good here. The hall is cozy, the coverage is also pleasant. We’ve definitely had a good workout these past few days, so I feel comfortable. I hope I can also perform properly in tomorrow’s match. I’ve seen Zavatska play before, but I’ve never played against her. I think Marion will watch a few more of her videos. Also, I think she watched the girls practice. This means that we – and with Jurgen’s help too – will be able to put everything together into a coherent plan for the game. Therefore, I hope that we will be well prepared. Marta Kostiuk’s absence was a big surprise for some, and a smaller one for others. One way or another, the Ukrainian women are, of course, the favorites of this match. But we’ll just do our best and hope for a positive result in the end.”