Roberto Bautista Agut has spoken of his “amazing feeling” to be a part of Spain’s Davis Cup win on Sunday.
Agut withdrew from the squad ahead of the quarter-finals match-up against Argentina after learning of his father’s deteriorating health.
Unfortunately, his father Ximo Bautista died not long after Agut left to the Davis Cup squad.
Spanish players and coaches dedicated the win over Argentina to Agut in emotional scenes.
And the world No 9 incredibly returned to show his support for his team in the dramatic semi-finals win over Great Britain before returning to the courts for the final against Canada.
Bravely, Agut took on the responsibility of the first rubber and got Spain off to the perfect start as he defeated Felix Auger-Alissime.
Nadal ultimately clinched the Davis Cup title in the second rubber as he beat Denis Shapovalov in straight sets.
Agut paid credit to his team-mates for allowing him the chance to compete in the final.
“I had the opportunity to play today because all the team and all the players … did an unbelievable effort since the first day,” he said.
“It was an amazing feeling on the court today.”
Nadal stretched his unbeaten record at the Davis Cup to 29 consecutive singles matches.
But the world No 1 was keen to point out his admiration for what Agut had to overcome in returning for Spain.
“I have won all 8 games, but here the person who has been vital has been Roberto Bautista,” Nadal told Vamos.
“He is an example for the rest of my life.”
