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Courier keen to be next U.S. Davis Cup captain

NEW YORK (Reuters) – Former world number one Jim Courier said on Monday he is interested in taking over as the United States Davis Cup captain when Patrick McEnroe steps down later this month.

McEnroe, the longest-serving captain for the U.S., announced on Monday that he is to leave the role after the team's World Group playoff against Colombia in Bogota this month.

Courier, who is working at the U.S. Open as a commentator with U.S. television station CBS, said he had always loved Davis Cup.

"Davis Cup means the world to me," he said. "At some point in my life I certainly hope to have that seat.

"I'm definitely interested in the job so hopefully they will give me a call and we'll chat about it."

McEnroe, who led the U.S. to victory in 2007, is in his 10th year as captain after replacing his brother John in 2000.

"It is with a heavy heart that I am resigning as Davis Cup captain, but it is a decision I felt was best for the team and myself right now," McEnroe said at a press conference at Flushing Meadows on Monday.

"Davis Cup is a significant time commitment and this decision will allow me to focus more energy on my family and to the USTA Player Development programme."

(Editing by Justin Palmer)