NEW YORK - Patrick McEnroe will succeed his older brother John as captain of the U.S. Davis Cup team, the United States Tennis Association said Wednesday.

The 34-year-old has worked as a tennis analyst for television sports channel ESPN since retiring from professional tennis in 1998. He is the 38th captain of the most successful team in Davis Cup history.

Patrick McEnroe is one of the most well-respected, forward-thinking minds in professional tennis today, said USTA chief executive Arlen Kantarian.

His competitive instinct, understanding of the game and strong leadership skills make him the perfect choice to lead the U.S. Davis Cup team going forward. Patrick is and will continue to be one of the game's great ambassadors.

John McEnroe, who replaced Tom Gullikson in September 1999, resigned as captain on November 20, saying he was frustrated with the format of the global men's team competition.

His 14-month reign was the shortest by a U.S. captain in 37 years. The U.S., champions 31 times, were beaten 5-0 by eventual champions Spain in the semifinals in July.

NO MATCH FOR BROTHER

In his nine years on the professional tour Patrick McEnroe did not come close to matching the success of John.

He won just one singles title during his career - and 16 doubles titles - and his experience in Davis Cup consisted of four doubles matches, starting in 1993. They are the first brothers to serve as American captain.

I am extremely honoured to accept the position, McEnroe said. It will be very exciting and quite a challenge to work with the new rising stars in men's tennis as we work toward bringing the Davis Cup back to the United States.

This statement may indicate Patrick McEnroe will look beyond Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi when he launches the 2001 campaign in February against Switzerland.

The biggest problem in John's year as captain was his difficulty in persuading Agassi and Sampras to make themselves available. Wimbledon champion Sampras welcomed McEnroe's appointment Wednesday.

Patrick is a good friend, a strong competitor and a solid ambassador for the sport of tennis. The USTA made a great choice in giving him the position and I wish him nothing but the best.

OUTSPOKEN CAPTAIN

Appointed captain in September 1999, it was hoped John McEnroe would pump life into an event which has seen its popularity wane in the U.S.. The U.S. last won the Davis Cup in 1995.

Despite his disappointing debut as captain John, who as a player holds or shares 20 U.S. Davis Cup records, still wants to play his part.

Just a week ago, he urged the incoming captain to recall him to play doubles.

I want to play doubles in the Davis Cup again -- it is a serious offer on my behalf, the 41-year-old said.

I believe there is no-one else around that plays a better doubles game than I do.

Whether the new captain, whoever that may be, feels the same way and considers it a realistic option, is another matter.