Nadal, Ferrer put Spain into Davis Cup semis

PARIS: David Ferrer toppled Philipp Kohlschreiber in a thrilling five-hour marathon decider as Spain roared back from 2-1 down in their Davis Cup tie against Germany to reach the semi-finals on Sunday.

After world number one Rafael Nadal put Alexander Zverev firmly in his place with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 humbling, Ferrer edged Kohlschreiber 7-6(1), 3-6, 7-6(4), 4-6, 7-5 in the final rubber at Valencia’s sun-drenched Plaza de Toros to wrap up a 3-2 victory.

The 36-year-old Ferrer held firm in the eighth game of the final set to save three break points and then pounced at 5-5 to secure the break before serving out for victory.

“It’s an unforgettable day, I don’t know how I did it,” an emotional Ferrer told Television Espanola.Spain captain Sergi Bruguera added: “I feel so much emotion. The match that they both played was unbelievable.

“This is very special for David who we all love. He is one of the greatest people on the circuit and he deserves a match like this.“I think both deserved to win. I think Philipp played one of the best matches I have ever seen him play. The match was an incredible level of tennis and incredible intensity.”