By Rick Horrow and Karla Swatek
September 7, 2012
The US’s semifinal vs. defending Davis Cup champion Spain begins Friday in Gijon, Spain. Spain and the US have faced each other ten times at the Davis Cup, with Spain winning the previous two matchups. The winner faces either Argentina or the Czech Republic in the final November 16-18.
Davis Cup is a big economic generator for the communities that host matches. A 2009 International Tennis Federation report determined Davis Cup generates an annual economic impact of $184 million, producing $53 million worth of commercial income for the ITF and participating nations each year. The report also found that Davis Cup differs from other international sporting events most matches take place in existing venues. Additionally, the tournament spreads the wealth amongst smaller communities. In recent years, the USTA has held matches in Winston-Salem, N.C.; Portland, Ore.; and Birmingham, Alabama.
