Playing Chile represents the next step in our ultimate goal of bringing the Davis Cup back to the US. I have full confidence in this team.

I sometimes rented a car and drove from event to event in Europe; a road trip was a great escape from the day-to-day anxieties of playing, and it kept me from getting too lost in the tournament fun house with its courtesy cars, caterers, locker room attendants, and such — all amenities that create a firewall between players and what you might call the 'real' world — you know, where you may have to read a map, ask a question in a foreign tongue, find a restaurant and read the menu posted in the window to make sure you're not about to walk into a joint that serves only exotic reptile meat.

We made a successful, last-minute effort to get the French Open many years ago, when the USA network bailed on it. I remember, four of us jumped on a plane on the spur of the moment to cover it. I think we had someone draw up a sign (by hand) that we could hold up in front of the camera to tell viewers that it was ESPN coverage.

We expect a tough match in Belgium on clay. Andy has been the stalwart of the team and the Bryans have been clutch in doubles for us lately. James and Robby have stepped up this summer and are playing exceptional tennis.

What I'll get feedback-wise from the guys is two things: speed of the court and indoor-outdoor,

Although I picked her a couple of times to win a major, and she keeps choking.