As IslandStats.com continues its exclusive series profiling the Bermuda Men’s Davis Cup team ahead of their historic World Group II clash in Cyprus, we turn our attention to Zachary Maguire.
Bermuda’s top-ranked junior, Maguire, is set to make his senior international breakthrough after being named in the national squad for next month’s historic Davis Cup World Group II play-off against Georgia.
Maguire’s inclusion in the four-man roster marks a significant milestone for the 17-year-old, who secured his place on the plane to Cyprus through a series of dominant performances in the domestic trial matches. The Saltus Grammar School student will join professional lights Daniel Phillips and Trey Mallory, alongside veteran addition Wayne Montgomery, for the tie scheduled to take place on February 6th and 7th at the Herodotou Tennis Academy in Larnaca.
The selection of Maguire follows a rigorous internal play-off process overseen by National Tennis Director and team captain Ricky Mallory Jr. While Phillips and Mallory received automatic berths due to their ATP ranking points, the remaining spots were decided on the court. Maguire proved his readiness for the "big boys' arena" by defeating established senior players, including a hard-fought victory over long-time teammate Tariq Simons, to cement his status as the island's premier young talent.
Maguire is no stranger to the international stage, having previously captained Bermuda’s Junior Davis Cup side. However, the step up to World Group II represents the highest level the island has ever competed at in the competition’s history. For the young right-hander, who is committed to join NCAA Division 1 program Sacred Heart University in August, the opportunity is the fulfillment of a long-held ambition.
The move to Cyprus comes after facility issues in the original host nation of Georgia forced a late change of venue. Despite the Mediterranean backdrop, Georgia remains the official host of the hard-court encounter. Bermuda heads into the tie with significant momentum following their promotion from Americas Group III last summer, and the addition of a "younger, fitter" player like Maguire is seen as a key component of the squad's technical depth.
Maguire’s ascent has been met with praise from both coaches and peers. Former teammate Tariq Simons, who was edged out by the teenager during the trials, noted that the 17-year-old has "earned his spot" through sheer consistency and work rate. Captain Ricky Mallory echoed these sentiments, highlighting Maguire’s composure as a defining factor in his selection.
With the countdown to the February 6th opener now in its final stages, Maguire is focused on learning from the seasoned professionals around him while aiming to contribute to what could be another historic chapter for Bermudian tennis. Should the team overcome Georgia, they would secure a permanent spot in World Group II, moving Bermuda further into the global spotlight of the Davis Cup.
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