Italy Advances to Billie Jean King Cup Final After Defeating Ukraine

SEOUL, Korea – Italy secured a place in the Billie Jean King Cup final after defeating Ukraine 2-1 in the semifinals on Friday. Jasmine Paolini played a pivotal role for Italy, winning her singles match and teaming up with Sara Errani for the crucial doubles victory.

World No. 26 Marta Kostyuk gave Ukraine a strong start by defeating Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-2, 6-3. Kostyuk dominated the match, not facing any break points and converting four of eight chances on Cocciaretto’s serve.

In the second singles match, No. 8 Paolini rallied back to tie the score at 1-1. After falling behind a set and a break, she overcame No. 13 Elina Svitolina with a score of 3-6, 6-4, 6-4. Paolini’s comeback marked her sixth win in her last seven matches at the Billie Jean King Cup.

The doubles pairing of Paolini and Errani then took the court against Kostyuk and Lyudmyla Kichenok. The Italian duo broke early for a 3-0 lead and closed out the first set at 6-2. Despite facing a slight setback in the second set when the Ukrainians took a 3-1 lead, Paolini and Errani won five consecutive games to secure the match with a final score of 6-2, 6-2.

This victory marks Italy’s third consecutive year advancing to the Billie Jean King Cup final, underscoring Paolini’s impressive performance throughout the tournament.

The other semifinal will see the United States face Great Britain, with the Americans aiming for their 20th title and Britain seeking its first.