Aljaz Bedene loses Davis Cup appeal

Bedene, 26, became a British citizen in March 2015. However, he played three Davis Cup ties for Slovenia – all dead rubbers – between 2010 and 2012.

Opinion was split on whether the British No.2, who has been based in the United Kingdom since 2008, should be allowed to compete.

His original bid to represent GB was rejected by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), prompting an appeal. However, ITF rules state players cannot compete for a second nation, with Wednesday’s announcement confirming what many already expected.

"Of course I am very sad with today’s result and that it has not gone the way I had hoped," Bedene said in an LTA statement.

"I would like to thank all the fans, my team and the LTA for continuing to support me all the way.

It means GB must navigate their Davis Cup defence without the world No.57 – albeit a player who was also absent during their 2015 triumph – and places extra strain on Andy Murray. Kyle Edmund (world No.87), Dan Evans (125) and James Ward (182) are GB’s other contenders for a singles spot.

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LTA chief executive Michael Downey added: "We are very disappointed for Aljaz and with the outcome of the appeal hearing on Sunday.

"The LTA has fully supported him in his endeavour to represent the country he rightfully and proudly calls home. In terms of next steps, we will consider the options and continue to consult with Aljaz."