Cilic looking for Davis Cup redemption in Lille

Marin Cilic heads into this weekend's Davis Cup final against reigning champions France in Lille bidding to put his woes against Argentina two years ago to bed by leading Croatia to victory.

The former US Open champion led Juan Martin del Potro by two sets in the 2016 final in Zagreb with the hosts only needing one more win for the title, but slipped to an agonising defeat as Argentina roared back to lift the trophy.

But now he has the chance to claim a first Davis Cup in the final year before the controversial new format is implemented by the ITF.

Croatia will be slight favourites despite having to face France on clay at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, with world number 12 Borna Coric supporting the seventh-ranked Cilic.

"Two years ago, we were in the lead on the last day and very close to winning it," remembered Cilic.

"We have a new opportunity. It's a big challenge and a great motivation."
- Clay 'not a problem' -
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"We have four, five days to prepare. It's not ideal, we would love to have two or three weeks, but I think it will be enough."