The best years are yet to come

DAN EVANS still has time to realise his ambitions despite his year-long drug ban, according to Great Britain Davis Cup captain Leon Smith.

The low point in the 29-year-old’s career came in 2017 when he tested positive for cocaine just after climbing to a career-high No41 in the world rankings.

Despite failing narrowly to beat Joao Sousa on Saturday night, which would have led to a fourth-round clash against Rafa Nadal, Evans is likely to climb from his current No61. And Smith feels his next target should be the top 30 by January. “He has years ahead of him, his best years,” said Smith. “He is young and fun. He’s looking after himself and he has a good team around him.

“He is naturally an extremely good athlete. He’s 29, he has years left. I’m really excited about watching him on the US hard courts. I think that’s his best surface.

“I know Dan plays well on grass, but because of his foot skills and speed around the court those lively hard courts will be good for him. He’s had success there in the past.

“I don’t like putting figures on it, but he can go higher in the world rankings. It would be great if he can finish the season strongly and be seeded for the Australian Open.”

Evans, right, is currently No33 in the season-long competition for a place in the ATP World Tour Finals, but it is his list of victims that makes Smith feel he can go higher.

“Before his ban he was up at 41 in the world but importantly there are reference points where he has beaten