“Sometimes you need to admit the opponent was a little bit better” – Borg on Laver Cup defeat
Despite only winning one of nine matches, Bjorn Borg is happy with how Team Europe performed at the 2023 Laver Cup
After winning the first four editions of the Laver Cup, and only losing last year’s tournament by a whisker, few would have predicted Team Europe to lose the 2023 Laver Cup by a score line as one-sided as 13-2.
That’s exactly what happened this weekend, however, as Team World only required one match on Sunday to seal the event, with Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton striking the knockout blow against Hubert Hurkacz and Andrey Rublev in the opening doubles match of day three.
“Team World played unbelievable tennis. Every single match they played really good,” a gracious Bjorn Borg declared after the trophy ceremony, before going on to unpack Team Europe’s performance.
Borg happy with Team Europe’s effort, praises Team World
Despite only winning one of the nine matches contested over the 2023 Laver Cup, team captain Bjorn Borg has shared that he’s pleased with the effort shown by Team Europe over the past week.
“It’s been a good week for us, practicing and getting together, the team spirit, everything. I mean, we gave 100%,” the tennis legend began.
“Of course we are all very disappointed, because we never expect to lose this score this much. What can you say? They played good tennis.”
Casper Ruud was the only Team Europe member to win a match across the three-day event, with the Norwegian triumphing over Tommy Paul in the second match of day two. Outside of his result, while several contests were tight, it was Team World who had the upper hand overall.
“I think everybody played good tennis here, Borg continued. “We did. But unfortunately we did not win the key points, and we lose a lot of important points in the matches.”
“Could it have gone the other round, maybe it would be a different score. I’m happy with my team. I mean, I’m happy with these guys. They took a lot of responsibility to do what they have to do. They gave 100%, all these guys. It’s no complaints in that kind of way.”
The Swede confirmed that he will lead Team Europe in next year’s Laver Cup as well, where the tournament will head to Berlin.
“One thing. We will definitely bring back the Cup. It’s going to stay in Europe next year.”
