Anderson’s US switch gains momentum

“Officially, we have heard nothing on this issue from Kevin or anyone else, but we have asked our contacts in the States to approach him and come up with some kind of information to at least clear the air,” Crookes said.

If the reports were to be confirmed, Anderson could make himself available to represent the US in Davis Cup competition next year.

The 6ft 8in Anderson, currently ranked 17th in the world, had declined to represent South Africa over the past three years, during which time he obtained dual citizenship — after his marriage in 2011 to Kelsey O’Neal of Illinois.

The International Tennis Federation rules stipulate a player must have had a three-year break before being eligible to switch countries in international tennis’s premier team event.

“Naturally it would be a huge blow if we lost the services of a player of Kevin’s calibre,” Crookes said.

“But we will have to respect any decision he might make and accept that he believes the switch will serve to better his future tennis prospects.”

TSA consultant Bruce Davidson said he had been in touch with the US Tennis Association regarding the Anderson issue but they had no information on the matter.

“But TV commentators at the recent Canadian Open ATP Masters tournament made no bones about declaring that Anderson would be representing the United States in next year’s competition,” Anderson said.

Anderson came up against US number one John Isner in the first round of the Cincinnati Masters tournament on Monday, losing 6-3 6-4 to make an early exit from the tournament — but not before television commentators suggested they could be teammates in next year’s Davis Cup.

– Sapa