While controversy escalates over Kevin Anderson's ongoing refusal to play for South Africa in the Davis Cup, the country's dominant tennis player has admitted he is seeking dual nationality with the US.
Without Anderson's participation, South Africa, following the 4-1 drubbing against Slovenia over the weekend, are facing likely relegation to the third-tier Euro-Africa Group Two Davis Cup segment in a deciding tie against what is expected to be a powerful Russian combination in Russia from October 25.
Once the world's 21st-ranked Anderson achieves his expected dual citizenship, he will be eligible to represent both countries in the Davis Cup from 2015 - as long as he has satisfied the International Tennis Federation's provision of not representing South Africa for three years.
Anderson last played for South Africa in Davis Cup competition in a World Group play-off against Croatia in September 2011, and would ostensibly be in a position to decide whether to make himself available for either South Africa or the US in 2015 as a dual citizen.
In a statement released by Anderson's agent yesterday, the player said his attitude towards Davis Cup participation had "not changed".
"He is indeed applying for dual citizenship as his wife is American and he trains in Florida," said his agent Stuart Duguid.
"This makes it much easier for Kevin to travel internationally - which he does nearly every week - and return to the United States without any immigration hassle each time.
"It has nothing to do with Davis Cup tennis. Moreover, dual citizenship is very different to switching citizenship, which would involve him giving up his South African citizenship.
"Despite rumours and speculation to the contrary, he has not switched citizenship, nor does he have any intention to do so.
"His position on Davis Cup tennis has not changed since he last went on record - he will assess his position on a tie-by-tie basis considering all factors."
South African Davis Cup captain John-Laffnie de Jager said yesterday that Anderson could "clear the air" by making himself available for the vital tie against Russia - which would prove he has no plans of representing the US in the future.
"Obviously having Kevin in harness would be a great boost," added De Jager.
"Unfortunately, there is no indication that this is going to happen."
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package. 
