Crosscourt.com
4th August, 2000
Meanwhile Australian player mark Philippoussis issued a statement regarding some of the criticism he has come under regarding Davis Cup.
He said: "Since returning to tournament play in the US last week, questions have lingered regarding my status with the Australian Davis Cup Team and Tennis Australia. To some extent this is understandable, as I must concede that I was even surprised by the lack of support I received from some of my teammates, captain and national association as a result of my being unable to participate in the recent tie in Brisbane. It is my intention that by providing these comments at this time, this matter can be put behind us once and for all.
"As I have explained directly and via my representatives, my withdrawal was out of concern for my health. specifically my left knee which was operated on following Wimbledon last year. It is worth noting that after my participation in the first Davis Cup match of this year in Switzerland. I was forced to withdraw from two important ATP Tour events shortly thereafter due to precisely the same concern.
Having said that, I have been made aware of the captain John Newcombe and players Pat Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt's desire and intention to maintain the same line-up for the Final in December that was available for the Semi Final last month and I will respect that decision.
Naturally, as an Australian and member of the winning 1999 Davis Cup squad, I can only hope that this group will achieve the same outcome and enjoy the experience as much as I did last year. Indeed, at 23 years of age, I consider my two singles wins and overall team triumph in Nice as the greatest moment in my tennis career thus far.
As for my schedule, I will continue to play on the Tour in America leading up and through the U.S. Open. Following that final Grand Slam of the season, I will immediately return home to Melbourne where I will train in preparation for the Olympics. While I did play on behalf of Australia in the 96 Games, being a member of the team and competing on behalf of the host country this time around will surely he a once in a lifetime opportunity and the highlight of my season.
Finally, for all of the many friends and fans who have expressed their support to me during this recent period, I want to sincerely thank you and hope to express my gratitude with a strong showing in Sydney come September."