Italy and Ukraine secured victories on Thursday to advance to the semifinals of the Billie Jean King Cup finals in Shenzhen. The defending champions from Italy overcame a sluggish start against China to win 2-1, while Ukraine relied on a decisive doubles victory to defeat Belgium by the same margin.
Italy Overcomes China After Early Singles Defeat
Italy faced an uphill battle in its quarterfinal tie against China after Elisabetta Cocciaretto dropped the opening match in straight sets. China’s Zhang Shuai defeated Cocciaretto 6-0, 6-2 on Thursday, putting the host nation ahead. Former world number four Jasmine Paolini leveled the tie for Italy by defeating Paris 2024 Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen 6-3, 7-6 (7/4). Paolini then teamed up with Sara Errani in the decisive doubles rubber, securing a 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 victory over Guo Hanyu and Jiang Xinyu after two hours and fifteen minutes of play.
Ukraine Edges Past Belgium in Decisive Doubles
In the other Thursday quarterfinal, Ukraine advanced to the final four by defeating Belgium 2-1. Anna Kalinina opened the tie by beating Jana Otzipka 6-7 (6/8), 6-1, 6-1 to give Ukraine the lead. Belgium responded when Greet Minnen defeated world number seven Elina Svitolina 6-7 (5/7), 6-4, 6-4. To decide the match, Kalinina returned to the court alongside Lyudmyla Kichenok, defeating Magali Kempen and Lara Salden in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3.
Upcoming Semifinals and Tournament Timeline
Italy and Ukraine will face each other on Saturday in the BJK Cup semifinals. The tournament schedule also features Spain against the Czech Republic in the opposite half of the draw, following their respective quarterfinal victories over Kazakhstan and Great Britain. The final of the international team competition is scheduled for Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Italy defeat in the BJK Cup quarterfinals?
Italy defeated China 2-1 in the quarterfinals on Thursday.
Who will Italy play in the semifinals?
Italy will face Ukraine in the semifinals on Saturday.
When is the Billie Jean King Cup final?
The tournament final is scheduled for Sunday.
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