World number 11 Marin Cilic was elated after he helped Croatia into the Davis Cup final with victory over France.
Cilic was the star performer in Zadar as Croatia reached the decider for just the second time. The hosts clinched their success when Cilic got the better of Richard Gasquet 6-3, 6-2, 7-5.
He had earlier earned two rubbers for his team, one in singles play on Friday and a Saturday doubles success with Ivan Dodig. Croatia return to the Davis Cup final for the first time in 11 years, when Ivan Ljubicic and Mario Ancic guided them to the title in 2005.
Croatia became the first unseeded nation to win the title then and will look to replicate the feat this year when they host the final against Argentina, who ended the reign of Great Britain on Sunday.
Cilic admitted it was a special feeling to win for Croatia in front of a home crowd. “When you look at the atmosphere, it’s an incredible feeling,” said Cilic.
“It’s been a dream weekend for us. I played incredible tennis. I produced a great performance for all the crowd. I can’t be more proud than right now.
“We have always been playing well in Davis Cup. It’s something that’s in your heart.” Andy Murray had given Great Britain hopes of a remarkable comeback against Argentina in Glasgow when he levelled their match at 2-2 on Sunday.
However, Leonardo Mayer saw off Dan Evans 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 to send Argentina into their fifth Davis Cup final and first since 2011 when they lost to Spain in Seville.
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