Ran said it was the “right time to hand over the reins” after Israel were whitewashed in the Davis Cup Europe Group A match in Ramat Hasharon.

"Over the past 12 years, I’ve led the team including to the Davis Cup World Group semi-finals,” said Ran. “It was once a team that everybody wanted and dreamed of being a part of.”

Israel succumbed tamely to Ukraine with Dudi Sela (75) losing to Illya Marchenko (287) and Alerxandr Dolgopolov (52) defeating Edan Leshem (291) losing to Alerxandr Dolgopolov (52) in the opening singles matches without winning a set.

Sergiy Stakhovsky and Denis Molchanov clinched victory for the visitors with a five-set win in the doubles over Jonathan Erlich and Sela. Leshem and Mor Bulis (550) lost the final two matches as Israel suffered their first home whitewash since 1975.

In the past, Ran has resigned only to be persuaded to reverse his decision but it is thought unlikely that he will do so now.

Former stars Andy Ram and Amos Mansdorf have been mentioned  as possible replacements.