Chile will host Serbia in the first round of the 2026 Davis Cup Qualifiers stage between February 6-8 next year. The tie comes a week after the Australian Open, and the conversation inevitably shifts toward one man - Novak Djokovic.
Fernando Gonzalez knows a Davis Cup tie at home can sometimes feel like a national referendum - with hope, pride and a country's tennis heartbeat all generated within the single weekend.
The former world no. 5 sees the situation as complex and thrilling at the same time. On a purely competitive level, Chile's chances of advancing skyrocket if Serbia arrives without their legendary leader.
Thus, the tie would become more unpredictable and give the host nation a nice chance to advance. In Davis Cup, where emotion can tilt the world, removing a 24-time Major winner from the equation is a massive factor.
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However, Fernando sees the second side of that coin. He understands what Novak's presence would mean for Chilean tennis, especially as this stands as likely the only chance for them to witnessthe legend's game on their soil.
The opportunity would likely be a once-in-lifetime spectacle for all Chilean fans and those who want to embrace tennis. In short, a nation that adores sport would get a living monument to excellence standing across the net from its own warriors.
Gonzalez knows what it takes to beat Djokovic, having played against him three times in 2005 and 2006. The Chilean is one of the rare players to hold a winning record against the most accomplished player of all time.
Two decades later, Fernando finds himself contemplating a different Novak equation - the balance between Chile's competitive hopes and a historic andunique, occasion for its fans.
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Traveling to the other side of the world just days after the Australian Open to compete on clay is unlikely what Djokovic desires at 38. However, with his incredible respect for the national jersey, you just never know.
"From a sporting perspective, it's better for our country if Novak does not come to Chile for the Davis Cup. That would give us a better chance of beating Serbia and advancing.
On the other hand, Novak is the greatest player of all time and the only active member of the Big 3, with Roger and Rafa having retired.
The Davis Cup tie is an important event for our tennis fans, and it would be a dream for all Chileans to see the winner of most Major titles in action," Fernando Gonzalez said.
