Bryans hand Davis Cup to U.S.

PORTLAND – Andy Roddick was loud, proud and reflective after helping the United States win its first Davis Cup title since 1995.

“To be here and to bring the Cup back to the States is just an amazing feeling,” he said. “But more importantly, just to share the journey with these guys, it’s been so much fun.”

Roddick got the U.S. off to a fast start and brothers Bob and Mike Bryan finished the job Saturday, beating Russia’s Nikolay Davydenko and Igor Andreev 7-6 (4), 6-4, 6-2 for the Americans’ third straight win in the best-of-5 final.

Roddick and Blake each won their singles matches Friday on the indoor hard court at Portland’s Memorial Coliseum.

The once-dominant United States had not won the Davis Cup in 12 years, the longest span without an American victory. Pete Sampras last led the team to victory over Russia on clay in Moscow.

The United States now has 32 titles in the international team competition, dating to 1900.

After the victory, team captain Patrick McEnroe was asked if it was his best moment in tennis.

McEnroe started his reply: “It’s not about me, it’s about this whole group of guys … ” before he was interrupted by a jubilant Roddick.

“Say yes!” he shouted.

The U.S. had not taken the first three matches of a Davis Cup final since 1990 against Australia.