Auckland To Host Blockbuster New Zealand vs Japan Davis Cup Tie

The Trusts Arena in West Auckland will host the Davis Cup World Group I tie between New Zealand and Japan on 19 & 20 September.

The tie follows New Zealand’s dramatic promotion to Group I of the competition, secured through three consecutive victories, coming over Georgia and Jamaica in 2025, before February’s nail-biting 3-2 comeback win against Bosnia & Herzegovina in Whangārei.

The Trusts Arena will offer the chance for thousands of tennis fans to experience the thrill of international tennis at home. Tennis New Zealand Chief Executive Julie Paterson says it’s an opportunity to be savoured for both the fans and the players.

“This team has built something special over the last few years. There’s a real belief within the group, and they’ve earned the chance to test themselves against some of the best nations in world tennis.”

“The Davis Cup brings a unique energy, and after the support we saw in Whangārei earlier this year, we know New Zealanders will create an incredible atmosphere at The Trusts Arena.”

Competing in Group I is a significant achievement for the team, with tennis superpowers Australia, Serbia, Argentina, Switzerland and Poland also in the group. However, captain Artem Sitak says the team knows how to rise to the big occasions.

“Taking on Japan in September will be our biggest tie in terms of both occasion and significance for a long time. We’ve worked really hard to get to Group I, and can’t wait to put on a show for the fans at The Trusts Arena.”

“Japan is a formidable team, with many strong players to call on, but we have proved we can show up when it matters most.”

While the New Zealand team is anticipating strong local support, Auckland’s Japanese community is expected to also be out in force for the visitors, especially as it may be the last time they see former world No. 4 Kei Nishikori in action.

Arguably Japan’s most iconic male player, the 2014 US Open finalist has announced he will retire at the end of the 2026 season, with September being his last chance to play in his country's colours.

Davis Cup, known as the World Cup of Tennis, is one of the world’s oldest international sporting events and sees the best men’s teams from more than 150 nations compete each year.

The two-day format will feature two singles rubbers on day one, followed by doubles and reverse singles on day two.

General admission tickets and courtside corporate hospitality will be available, with more information to be announced shortly. Visit tennis.kiwi/daviscup for more.