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Nalbandian Revisits 2008 Davis Cup Final, Alleging Team Turmoil Cost Argentina

A new Clank! interview revives scrutiny of the loss through his claim of internal issues within the Argentine team.

Overview

  • David Nalbandian says Argentina "should have won" the 2008 final against Spain and recounts disputes he believes affected the tie.
  • He asserts Juan Martín Del Potro arrived fatigued after the season-ending Masters and lost to Feliciano López in a match he felt was winnable.
  • Nalbandian claims Del Potro and Agustín Calleri declined to play the fourth rubber, leading José Acasuso to step in despite not being ready.
  • He discusses venue strategy, saying Córdoba’s altitude was considered to challenge Rafael Nadal, then argues Mar del Plata suited Argentina once Nadal withdrew.
  • He denies a personal rift with Del Potro and points to the player’s father as influential at the time, with outlets noting these are Nalbandian’s recollections without new corroboration.