Italy won the Billie Jean King Cup for the fifth time, defeating Slovakia 2-0 in the final. This victory ends Italy’s 11-year wait for the prestigious trophy.
Jasmine Paolini and Lucia Bronzetti delivered stellar performances in the summit clash in front of jubilant fans, including men’s world number one Jannik Sinner.
World number four Paolini secured the winning point for Italy by defeating Rebecca Sramkovaranked 43rd, in straight sets, 6-2, 6-1.
“Today, I told myself I was going to give 100%. If you win, you win. But if you lose, you have to accept it,” an emotional Paolini said. “I’m so proud of how we performed all week, and I’m thrilled we were able to bring the title back to Italy.”
Italy had taken the lead earlier in the tie when Lucia Bronzetti won her singles match against Viktoria Hruncakova in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.
“I’m proud to represent Italy and happy to earn this point. Every match in the final is tough, and I’m thrilled with the result,” Bronzetti said.
Slovakia, who had upset Britain in the semi-final, was unable to overcome a strong Italian team in the final.
This victory marks a significant achievement for Italian women’s tennis, demonstrating their return to dominance in the sport.
