Bob Bryan and George Linley Share Excitement Ahead of Davis Cup in Delray Beach

With the Davis Cup returning to Delray Beach this September, U.S. team captain Bob Bryan and Palm Beach County Sports Commission Executive Director George Linley spoke about what the event means for both the players and the local community.

For Bryan, the tie in Delray will be personal in more ways than one. “I’m pumped,” said the former world No. 1 doubles player. “I live down the street, so my family will get to experience it. They’ve seen me on TV all over the world, but this is the first time they’ll get to enjoy the matches live.”

Many American players also have ties to the area, something Bryan believes will add even more energy to the event. “Our players, a lot of them live and train here. They’re pumped to be close to home,” he said.

Reflecting on the last time the Davis Cup was held in Delray, Bryan recalled the electric atmosphere. “In 2004, I was fortunate to be on that team. The crowd was wild and passionate—the fans here are very vocal, and in Davis Cup, you need that,” he said. “You need that energy to lift the players up.”

He also spoke about Delray Beach's long-standing relationship with tennis.
“This community has been around tennis for so many years. People grew up watching tournaments here. We sold this venue out in 2004, and I can see that happening again,” Bryan added. “When you have a place sold out in a Davis Cup environment, it’s magic.”

Source: USTA.

George Linley echoed that sentiment, noting the significance of hosting an international event of this scale. “This is an enormous day for the Palm Beaches and the city of Delray Beach,” Linley said. “We’re hosting the Davis Cup—the World Cup of Tennis—and it’s one of the premier international events in sports.”

Linley also emphasized the teamwork involved behind the scenes. “This doesn’t happen without a great team and community,” he said, pointing to the support from local government, city officials, and event partners. “Every person from [each of] the different entities is the reason why we’re able to host events like this.”

As the city prepares to welcome fans and players from around the world, both Bryan and Linley made it clear: Delray Beach is ready for the moment.

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Written by Florida Tennis Associate Editor Osvaldo Godoy. Video footage (above) provided courtesy of USTA.