MOSCOW, April 13 (UPI) -- Russia clinched a 3-1 victory against the Czech Republic Sunday when Thomas Berdych retired in his match against Nikolay Davydenko.
Berdych was trailing 6-3, 2-6, 6-7 (5-7), 6-3, 1-2 when he could not continue after rolling his right ankle while attempting to return a Davydenko serve. He later limped off the court under his own power.
"I really felt I had a chance today, especially here in Russia," a disappointed Berdych said in a recorded message.
With the victory, Davydenko improved his record to 12-7 in Davis Cup singles matches and his country has won 16 straight on home soil. He has won all six career meetings against Berdych.
In a match that had no bearing on the outcome, Russia's Marat Safin was beaten 6-3 6-3 by Lukas Dlouhy.
Russia, last year's runner-up to the United States, advanced to the semifinals.
The Russians have not lost at home since 1995. That year the Americans were led by Pete Sampras's three wins.
