Patrick McEnroe’s debut as U.S. Davis Cup captain was half successful.
The Americans split their first two matches against Switzerland as Roger Federer defeated the U.S.’ Todd Martin 6-4, 7-6 (3), 4-6, 6-1, then Michael Gambill of the U.S. beat Michel Kratochvil 6-3, 7-5, 6-4.
In Saturday’s doubles, Gambill and Justin Gimelstob are scheduled to face Federer and Lorenzo Manta, although the captains can make last-minute changes. In Sunday’s reverse singles, Martin is to play Kratochvil and Gambill is to face Federer. McEnroe hinted he might use Andy Roddick, the world’s top junior last year.
The Americans said they were better prepared under the younger McEnroe than they were under his brother John.
Patrick McEnroe, with Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras not playing, brought a young team including Gambill, 23; Gimelstob, 24; and Roddick, 18, to the best-of-five series.
