Felix Auger-Aliassime has special memories from representing Canada in the Davis Cup, but he has decided to miss this year's finals to prioritize his off-court work.
This year's Davis Cup Finals will be even more special than usual. Rafael Nadal is set to end his legendary career at the team event, which is being held on home soil for the Spaniard in Malaga.
Despite the finals next month being the 22-time Grand Slam champion's farewell, Nadal has said he will not be on the court unless physically ready to avoid jeopardizing Spain's chances of winning the title.
The 2022 Davis Cup Finals saw Canada make a surprising run to the title, with Auger-Aliassime playing a starring role in the country's winning its first-ever title in the historic competition.
Carlos Alcaraz was stunned by Auger-Aliassime in the group stage in 2022. The home fans were left silent when the 24-year-old triumphed 6-7, 6-4, 6-2 after an outstanding display of powerful hitting and serving.
After Canada defeated Germany in the quarterfinals, Auger-Aliassime won his singles and doubles against Italy to play the most significant role in helping his country set up a final against Australia.
Denis Shapovalov beat Thanasi Kokkinakis in the opening match to leave Auger-Aliassime with a chance to seal the title for his country, and he did precisely that by defeating Alex de Minaur in straight sets.
That experience would have made Auger-Aliassime an invaluable part of Canada's team for this year's Davis Cup Finals, but the five-time ATP titlist has revealed he will not compete in the event this year.
Auger-Aliassime has actively supported educational initiatives in his father's home country of Togo, and he will prioritize that important work instead of representing Canada in Malaga.
"The season is very long and, as players, we're forced to make difficult choices between ATP tournaments, team competition, rest and training time as well as humanitarian work."
"It has always been hugely important for me and my family to give back to others and I'm very proud of the support we have provided to educational initiatives in my father's home country, Togo."
"I plan on continuing that work this November and so, unfortunately, I have made the tough decision to miss the Davis Cup Final 8 in Malaga. I know Frank (Dancevic) and the team have what it takes to come back from Malaga with a second Davis Cup title."
Canada's team captain, Frank Dancevic, expressed support for Auger-Aliassime's decision, even though his team's chances of winning another Davis Cup title have probably been reduced as a result.
Auger-Aliassime has been replaced in the team by Milos Raonic. He was the runner-up at Wimbledon in 2016 and possesses one of the best serves in tennis history. The 33-year-old 's serve may have been the best in his prime.
Unfortunately, Raonic's promising career was derailed by several injury issues in the last few years. He is certainly not in his prime anymore, but that huge serve means he could still be a dangerous opponent in Malaga.