In a thrilling start to the United Cup mixed team event, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina showcased his prowess, guiding Spain to a 2-1 victory over Brazil on the opening day of the competition. The event marks the commencement of the new tennis season, with players gearing up for the upcoming Australian Open next month.
Davidovich Fokina, in partnership with Sara Sorribes Tormo, secured the decisive win for Spain by defeating the Brazilian duo of Beatriz Haddad Maia and Marcelo Melo with a score of 6-4, 7-5 in the Group A tie at the $10 million event. The victory sets a promising tone for Spain in the competition, which features 18 countries and includes ties in Sydney.
The United Cup debutant, Davidovich Fokina, had earlier given Spain a 1-0 lead by dominating his opponent, Thiago Seyboth Wild, with a score of 6-4, 6-0. The Spanish player showcased a strong baseline game and did not face a break point throughout the contest.
However, Brazil fought back as world number 11, Beatriz Haddad Maia, secured a victory over Sara Sorribes Tormo with a score of 7-6(1), 6-2. The win in a rematch of their French Open fourth-round clash earlier this year set the stage for the mixed doubles decider.
The United Cup, featuring top players from around the world, is a crucial warm-up event for the upcoming Australian Open, scheduled from January 14-28 in Melbourne. Tennis enthusiasts can look forward to more action-packed matches in the coming days, with world number ones Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek among the big names set to participate. The day’s late clash features hosts Australia against Britain, promising another exciting matchup in the prestigious tournament.
