Italy Conquers the Billie Jean King Cup with a Commanding Victory over the United States
In a demonstration of absolute dominance, Italy, led by Jasmine Paolini, won the Billie Jean King Cup, defeating the United States in a final that left no doubt about the superiority of the European team. Paolini, in a standout match, overcame Jessica Pegula in the fourth point of the match, securing the victory for Italy. The encounter, which took place at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center Arena in Shenzhen, China, saw Italy prevail in both singles matches in straight sets, avoiding the need for a decisive doubles match. World number 8, Paolini, defeated Pegula, ranked 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. Paolini managed to break Pegula’s serve with a powerful two-handed backhand, securing the first set. Although Pegula tried to react, Paolini remained calm and, with a strong forehand, secured the fourth match point, sealing the victory when Pegula’s backhand hit the net and fell outside the court. The Italian celebration was effusive, with Paolini and her teammates embracing and celebrating with the fans.Italy, which featured the doubles pair of Paolini and Sara Errani, Olympic champions and winners of the Roland Garros doubles this year, would face Pegula and Taylor Townsend in a possible doubles tiebreaker, but the victory in singles made it unnecessary. United States, the most decorated team in the history of the competition with 18 titles, has not won the tournament since 2017.“It’s an incredible feeling,” Paolini declared. “Today was a very tough 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 United States was in 2018.“Obviously, we are disappointed with how it unfolded,” commented the captain of the American team, Lindsay Davenport. “We felt we had a great opportunity, but both players (Italian) played great tennis. Congratulations to them.”
Lindsay Davenport
