U.S. to face Switzerland in 2012 Davis Cup opener

Bangkok, Thailand – The all-time titles leader United States round tie next year, as the 2012 Davis Cup World Group draw was announced on Wednesday.

The 32-time champion Americans, who could feature Mardy Fish and Andy Roddick, and Switzerland, which could be spearheaded by 16-time major champion Roger Federer, will do battle for a fourth time, with USA leading the all-time series, 2-1. The U.S. beat the Swiss, who played without Federer, 4-1 in an opening-round clash in Alabama two years ago.

Federer hasn't played in the opening round of Davis Cup since 2004.

This year's finalists, Spain and Argentina, are the top seeds for 2012.

The four-time champion Spaniards, who will host the Argentines in December's best-of-five finale, will be at home against Kazakhstan in February, while Argentina will visit three-time champion Germany.

The Argentines, still seeking an elusive first-ever Davis Cup title, upset defending champion Serbia 3-2 last week to reach the 2011 final.

Another intriguing 2012 matchup sees nine-time winner France traveling to Canada, while the 2010 champion Serbs will be at home against seven-time titlist Sweden. The remaining ties will see Austria welcoming two-time winner Russia, the Czech Republic hosting Italy, and Japan hosting Croatia.

All eight first-round matchups will be held from February 10-12.