What is the Davis Cup?
The Davis Cup is the world's top international team competition in men's tennis, first played in 1900. Countries compete against each other in a knockout format.
The competition was started by American player Dwight F. Davis, who donated the silver trophy. The first match was played in 1900 between the United States and the British Isles. Today, more than 100 countries take part each year. The women's equivalent is the Billie Jean King Cup.
Ties between countries consist of singles and doubles matches. The format has changed several times, and the competition now concludes with a Finals event involving the top eight nations. The United States has won the most Davis Cup titles, with 32, followed by Australia.
Recent champions
Italy won the Davis Cup in 2023, 2024 and 2025, with Jannik Sinner helping to lead the team in the first two victories. Spain, led at times by Rafael Nadal, has won six titles. Many top players consider representing their country in the Davis Cup a great honor.
Did You Know?
The Davis Cup trophy is a large silver punch bowl, and the names of winning teams are engraved on the base.