Italy Crowned Billie Jean King Cup Champions After Defeating the United States
In a remarkable performance, tennis player Jasmine Paolini secured the victory for Italy in the Billie Jean King Cup, overcoming Jessica Pegula in an exciting match. The victory was achieved in the fourth match point, marking the definitive triumph for the Italians over the United States. The Italian team, defending champion, demonstrated its superiority by winning both individual matches in straight sets, avoiding the need for a decisive doubles match. Paolini, currently ranked number 8, defeated Pegula, number 7, with a score of 6-4, 6-2. Previously, Elisabetta Cocciaretto, ranked 91st, had secured the first point for Italy by defeating Emma Navarro with a score of 6-4, 6-4. The match took place at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center Arena in Shenzhen, China. Paolini managed to break Pegula’s serve with a powerful two-handed backhand to take the first set. Although Paolini had a small stumble when serving for the match with a score of 5-1, Pegula managed to save three match points and, thanks to unforced errors by Paolini, managed to break serve and narrow the gap to 5-2. A powerful right-handed shot gave Paolini, runner-up at the French Open and Wimbledon last year, a fourth opportunity to close out the match. Finally, Paolini secured the victory when Pegula’s two-handed backhand hit the net and went astray. Paolini celebrated the victory by raising her arms and embracing her teammates. The technical staff joined the celebration on the court, dancing and celebrating with the Italian fans, who were waving flags and wearing blue jerseys.Both Pegula and Navarro had managed to come back from a set down to reach the final, after defeating Great Britain. Italy had the doubles pair formed by Olympic champions Paolini and Sara Errani, who also won the French Open doubles this year. If necessary, they would have faced Pegula and the world’s number one doubles player, Taylor Townsend. The United States team, the most successful in the history of the competition with 18 titles, has not won the tournament since 2017.It’s an incredible feeling. Today was a very tough match. We are very happy and proud of ourselves and our team. It’s a great day for Italy.
Jasmine Paolini
Italy, which was playing its third consecutive final, won its sixth title. The last final for the Americans was in 2018.Obviously, we are disappointed with the result. We felt we had a great opportunity, but both players played great tennis. Congratulations to them.
Lindsay Davenport, captain of the United States
