Alex Bogomolov Jr. Will Play For Russia In Davis Cup

The International Tennis Federation decided on Thursday that American Alex Bogomolov Jr. will play for Russia’s Davis Cup team. Ranked No. 34 in the world, he is Russia’s highest ranked player, a spot ahead of countryman Nikolay Davydenko. Bogomolov is fourth-ranked American.

The 28-year-old tennis player was born in Moscow, but after some moving around he came to America in 1992. He has represented the U.S. since he went pro in 2002. Despite never playing at the senior level of the Davis Cup, Bogomolov said in late October that he felt he could help Russia, since he had never played for the American team.

The United States Tennis Association was disappointed by the ITF’s decision.

From the AP:

“The USTA has been a longtime supporter of Alex Bogomolov through direct financial grants as well as coaching and training. We are disappointed with the ruling of the ITF’s Davis Cup Committee, but respect its decision,” the USTA said in a statement emailed to The Associated Press. “We understand Alex’s decision and hope he recognizes the amount of resources and commitment we have provided to him over the years.”