The Billie Jean King Cup Finals got off to a challenging start for reigning champions Switzerland, who faced a 3-0 defeat against the Czech Republic in their opening match. Last year’s runners-up, Australia, also lost their initial group match in Seville on Tuesday.
Switzerland knew they were in for a tough battle against the 11-time champion Czech Republic, and the match lived up to expectations.
A thrilling showdown between two 18-year-olds concluded with Czech player Linda Noskova narrowly defeating Celine Naef 7-6(2), 4-6, 6-4, after making a comeback from a 4-1 deficit in the deciding set.
Marie Bouzkova, ranked 23rd in the world, secured another victory for the Czechs by defeating Viktorija Golubic 6-4, 6-4 in the second singles match, giving the Czech Republic a decisive lead in the Group A clash.
The Czech team of Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova sealed a 3-0 win with a doubles triumph against Golubic and Jil Teichmann.
It’s worth noting that the Czech team rested Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova, who arrived late from the WTA Finals in Cancun. The United States is the other team in Group A.
The competition began with Group B, where Slovenia beat Australia 2-1. Kaja Juvan started strong for Slovenia with a 6-4, 6-1 victory over a rusty Ajla Tomljanovic. Former French Open semi-finalist Tamara Zidansek then overcame Daria Saville 6-1, 6-4, securing an insurmountable lead for Slovenia.
Commenting on the victory, Zidansek said, “It’s really special to share this moment with the team. I’m really, really happy with how composed Kaja and I stayed on court today. We both showed a great level.”
The Australian pairing of Storm Hunter and Kimberly Birrell did manage to win the doubles rubber against Veronika Erjavec and Ela Milic, but they face a challenging task in the group.
Australia’s captain, Alicia Molik, acknowledged the situation, saying, “I mean, it’s a do-or-die, isn’t it? It’s all or nothing.” Australia will face Kazakhstan, the other nation in Group B, in their upcoming clash.
The 12 qualifying nations are divided into four sections of three teams each, with the group winners advancing to the semi-finals.
