Ireland return to Davis Cup action this weekend as they host Syria in a World Group II Play-Off tie in Limerick, with international team tennis once again taking centre stage in Munster.
The two-day contest brings Ireland back to the University of Limerick, the venue for 2024’s home tie against Austria, when a packed arena created an atmosphere that has quickly become a reference point for Irish tennis.
Ireland will be represented by Michael Agwi, Peter Buldorini, Conor Gannon, Ammar Elamin and Charlie Barry, a selection that blends experience with a notable first call-up.
Barry’s inclusion by fellow Limerick native, captain Conor Niland, is a particular highlight, with the Limerick native set to make his Davis Cup debut on home soil. A member of Limerick Lawn Tennis Club, he becomes the newest member of the Ireland team and will have the chance to represent his country in front of local supporters as Ireland looks to build momentum across the weekend.
National Performance Development Director Cian Blake said the squad is relishing the prospect of returning to Limerick, where the connection between team and crowd was a defining feature of the 2024 tie. “We are excited to return to Limerick for the upcoming Davis Cup tie against Syria. The atmosphere was incredible there in 2024. The team are in good spirits and are very much looking forward to another great tie,” Blake said.
Recent performances have reinforced belief within the camp, with Ireland showing an ability to deliver under pressure on the international stage. “Our last two matches against Austria and PR China showed our players’ capacity to rise to the big occasions. They know they need to be at their best, and are quietly confident they will be,” Blake added.
While Syria arrive with less exposure at this level, they are expected to provide a stern test, particularly in the opening singles rubbers that often set the tone for the tie. The Davis Cup format — two singles on Friday, followed by doubles and reverse singles on Saturday — places a premium on squad depth and sustained intensity, areas Ireland have targeted as part of their recent progress.
Victory would secure Ireland’s place in World Group II for the next phase of the competition, continuing their upward push, while defeat would see them drop back into the regional pathway later in the year. With stakes high, a home crowd behind them and a new local debutant added to the mix, Limerick once again provides the backdrop for a weekend where fine margins and collective belief are likely to decide the outcome.
Image Credit: Tennis Ireland
Upcoming Events
SPORT FOR BUSINESS
Sport for Business is Ireland’s leading platform focused on the commercial, strategic and societal impact of sport. It connects decision-makers across governing bodies, clubs, brands, agencies and public institutions through high-quality content, events and insight. Sport for Business explores how sport drives economic value, participation, inclusion and national identity, and how your story can be part of ours.
Through analysis, storytelling and convening the sector, it helps leaders understand trends, share best practice and make better-informed decisions. Its work positions sport not just as entertainment, but as a vital contributor to Ireland’s social and economic fabric.
Find out more about becoming a member today.
Or sign up for our twice-daily bulletins to get a flavour of the material we cover.
Sign up for our News Bulletins here.
