Billie Jean King Cup: Schüttler trusts Niemeier to play a bigger role
Rainer Schuettler sees Wimbledon quarter-finalist Jule Niemeier ready for a bigger role in his Billie Jean King Cup team.
by SID
last edit: Nov 08, 2022, 01:11 pm
"I don't have the feeling that a leading player is missing because Jule has also made a very big step for herself this year with her successes," said the German team captain before the fight for relegation in Croatia.
"And I think she has no problem taking on this position if she has to," added Schüttler, who can no longer rely on Angelique Kerber (pregnancy) and Andrea Petkovic (end of career) in the game on Friday and Saturday . Wimbledon semi-finalist Tatjana Maria also canceled injured.
"It's always the case that there comes a time when you have to incorporate the younger generation more. The time has come and I think the girls are ready for it," said Schüttler, who expects a "very, very difficult match". . "Croatia is the favorite on paper," said the former Australian Open finalist: "But I think we have a very compact team and can cause a surprise."
In Rijeka, in addition to Niemeier, Schüttler relies on Anna-Lena Friedsam, Laura Siegemund and Eva Lys. Germany missed the finals in Glasgow after losing to Kazakhstan in April.