French dump Santoro
From corrrespondents in Paris
January 29, 2004
DAVIS CUP veteran Fabrice Santoro has been kicked out of the French team by captain Guy Forget, who says he no longer fits in.
The 31-year-old Frenchman, once called a "doubles genius" by Forget himself, was part of the 2001 Davis Cup-winning side and was runner-up in 1999 and 2002.
Forget, who is at the Australian Open, decided to drop Santoro for the this year's opener with Croatia from February 6-8 in Metz, claiming his personality created "tensions" within the team.
"Santoro has his own personality and a certain behaviour towards the other members of the team," said Forget.
"He needed a jolt like this. Tensions had appeared and they were creating an awkward situation.
"I don't focus on the player's individual qualities, but on the way the team is working.
"The role of a captain is to anticipate and going into the Davis Cup with a team affected by tensions would have created a lot of trouble."
Forget has named up a four-men squad including Sebastien Grosjean, Arnaud Clement, Nicolas Escude, and Mickael Llodra, while young talent Thierry Ascione earns his first Davis Cup cap as reserve.
Santoro said he is surprised by Forget's decision.
"I am very disappointed and sad," said Santoro who reached the Australian Open doubles semi-final with partner Llodra on Tuesday.
"I was not expecting it at all. In December I had five training sessions with Guy (Forget) and we went out socially together.
"I don't understand, this is very harsh but I accept it."
Forget insisted the door to the French team "was not closed" and Santoro could make his return earlier than planned as Grosjean is doubtful for the Croatia tie after picking up a groin injury in his Australian Open quarter-final clash with American Andre Agassi.
"I am ready to walk to Metz if necessary," Santoro added.
"The Davis Cup is still a priority for me as well as winning a Grand Slam in the doubles and an Olympic medal."
Agence France-Presse
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