Australia's Triumph Over France Headlines Davis Cup Group Stage Action

Australia edged out France in a thrilling opening day of the Davis Cup Finals group stage. A significant performance also came from Canada, as they triumphed over Argentina. Germany dominated Slovakia, and several intense matches were held across Manchester, Bologna, Valencia, and Zhuhai. Italy is set to play on Wednesday.

Australia edged out France in the standout tie of the opening day of the Davis Cup Finals group stage action on Tuesday, securing the win with Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell's doubles decider in Valencia. Reigning champions Canada also began their quest in confident fashion with singles wins from Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime against Argentina in Manchester.

Germany posted a decisive 3-0 victory over Slovakia in Zhuhai, China. The 28-time champions, Australia started strong as Thanasi Kokkinakis overcame Arthur Fils. Although France's Ugo Humbert countered by defeating Alexei Popyrin, Ebden and Purcell clinched the win by beating French duo Pierre-Hugues Herbert and Edouard Roger-Vasselin.

Canada's Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime provided solid performances, leading to a 2-1 victory over Argentina. Germany proved dominant against Slovakia with victories from Maximilian Marterer, Yannick Hanfmann, and a doubles team. The competition continues with 16 nations vying for a spot in the final knockout stage in November in Malaga, Spain.

(With inputs from agencies.)