Great Britain captain Leon Smith praised James Ward’s “courage” after the world number 111 beat John Isner in five thrilling sets in the Davis Cup. Ward came through 6-7 (5-7) 5-7 6-3 7-6 (7-3) 15-13 in almost five hours. It gave Britain a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five World Group tie in Glasgow, with the doubles to come on Saturday.
“James’s match is one of the most incredible I’ve ever seen, never mind sitting in a chair trying to be involved in it,” Smith told BBC Sport.
“I’m so proud of him. His courage and his quality, which is important.
“While he’s had some good wins, this is an established top-20 player and someone that’s been top 10.”
Jamie Murray and Dom Inglot will take on the world number one Bryan brothers in Saturday’s doubles. It had been expected that Andy Murray would come in, but with just one point required for victory he will rest for Sunday’s singles match against Isner.
“The scoreline is a good one,” said Smith. “It’s great to go in on Friday night 2-0 up.
“I think any combination for the doubles we put out is going to have a chance.”
Ward, 28, was urged on by 7,700 spectators at the Emirates Arena as well as his team-mates, with Andy Murray dispensing advice via Smith.
“It was amazing,” said Ward. “For the team to get me through that, I don’t even know how to describe it.
“Having Andy there every point, living every point with you, it’s something you don’t experience all the time. It was a special moment.
“Afterwards he just said, ‘I’m unbelievably proud of you, you’ve got no idea.’ We’re good friends and it means a lot.”
US captain Jim Courier admitted his team now face a daunting task, saying: “History is not kind to teams that go down 2-0, but we still have a chance.
“We have the Bryan brothers, which is a strong position to be in for Saturday, and we always have a chance when John takes to the court against anybody.
“If we win the doubles and get into the fourth match live, he’ll let it rip.”
The winners of the tie will move into the Davis Cup quarter-finals, with a home tie against France or Germany in July the prize on offer for Britain.
Davis Cup: 'Incredible' Ward puts GB on brink
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