In a meeting that will be remembered, Italy was crowned champion of the Billie Jean King Cup, after a resounding victory over the United States this Sunday. Jasmine Paolini, after an outstanding performance, secured the decisive point on the fourth match point, sealing the Italian victory. The match took place at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center Arena, where Italy demonstrated its superiority by winning both singles matches in straight sets, thus avoiding the need for a doubles match. Paolini, currently ranked number 8, defeated Jessica Pegula, ranked seventh, with a score of 6-4, 6-2. Previously, Elisabetta Cocciaretto, ranked 91st, beat Emma Navarro with a result of 6-4, 6-4. Paolini managed to break Pegula’s serve with a powerful two-handed backhand, securing the first set. Despite a brief moment of uncertainty when Paolini served for the match with a score of 5-1, Pegula could not reverse the situation. With a strong forehand, Paolini, runner-up at the French Open and Wimbledon last year, secured a fourth match point and finally clinched the victory when Pegula’s backhand hit the net and went wide. The Italian team’s celebration was effusive, with hugs and dances on the court with their team and fans.
The American team, led by Pegula and Navarro, had managed to reach the final after coming back in their respective matches against Great Britain. Italy, with a prominent doubles pair composed of Paolini and Sara Errani, Olympic champions and winners of the French Open this year, was ready to face Pegula and Taylor Townsend in a possible decisive doubles match. The Billie Jean King Cup, formerly known as the Fed Cup, has seen the United States as the most decorated team, with 18 titles, although they haven’t won since 2017.It’s an incredible feeling. Today was a very difficult match. We are very happy and proud of ourselves, of our team. It’s a great day for Italy.
Jasmine Paolini
Italy, which was playing its third consecutive final, achieved its sixth title. The last final of the Americans was in 2018.Obviously, we are disappointed with the result. We felt we had a great opportunity, but both Italian players played great tennis. Congratulations to them.
Lindsay Davenport
