Experienced national Coach Mel Spence has officially confirmed his resignation from the position of captain of Jamaica’s Davis Cup Team, effective November 1.

Spence, who held this role for the past two years, told the Jamaica Observer that he made the decision to step away from the national team to pursue other aspects of his professional career.

“I resigned from my role as Davis Cup Captain, effective November 1, 2023. It was a pleasure working with a talented group of young men who were fierce competitors, embodied sportsmanship, and served as great ambassadors,” said Spence.

He has extended his best wishes to the team for their future endeavours, stating: “I wish them every success in the future. It has always been an honour representing my country. Moving forward, I will focus on grooming players for professional play and other business ventures I am involved with.”

Spence’s decision to resign from the post came following Jamaica’s 3-0 defeat to Lebanon in their Davis Cup Group Two play-off tie in September.

Spence also expressed his gratitude to Tennis Jamaica for providing him the opportunity to serve in the position.

He emphasised his commitment to helping develop the country’s young players for future international tournaments.

“Jamaica boasts an abundance of talented players, and I look forward to playing a pivotal role in their development as top juniors, college, and professional players in the coming years,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tennis Jamaica President John Azar has confirmed that he received a letter from Spence indicating that he will no longer be continuing with the national team.

“I did in fact receive a resignation letter from Mel earlier this week, but, as explained to him subsequently, there is really no post for him to resign from, as it has always been the policy of Tennis Jamaica to appoint captains for specific ties,” said Azar.

“In this instance, Mel was appointed for the September 15-16 tie versus Lebanon, which has clearly concluded, so we have taken his letter to mean he wishes not to be considered for future ties in 2024,” he said.

“On behalf of Tennis Jamaica, I thank Mel for his past contribution and wish him the best in his future endeavours,” Azar added.