Richard did an interview after the draw was made today. RG.net has translated some of it.

On playing Safin, Richard commented, "I will do my utmost to win this match."

Audio Interview: DavisCup.com have also done an interview with Richard (in English), which you can listen to here

"I am confident. I have played very well this week in training. I do not know at what level he will play tomorrow, but I will play a good match."

Richard said he had a lot of admiration for Marat Safin, but all that will be forgotton tomorrow as he tries to get France a win.

Talking about Team France, Richard said, "I know that everyone will give their best for the team. The team spirit is always there. Our best level will be needed to beat a team like Russia who are exceptional on paper."

"I will have to play my game well. Serve well, return well, because that is the key on this surface. I cannot make a lot of errors. I must play my best tennis."