Italy have won the Billie Jean King Cup in Shenzhen for the sixth time, beating the United States in the final. It is their second title in a row.
Elisabetta Cocciaretto and Jasmine Paolini delivered straight-sets victories over higher-ranked opponents to secure the trophy.
Cocciaretto, ranked 91 in the world, stunned Emma Navarro, WTA number 18, 6-4, 6-4 in 89 minutes. Navarro had not lost a match all tournament.
Paolini, ranked eighth, then sealed the tie with a 6-4, 6-2 win against Jessica Pegula, WTA number seven. The 28-year-old maintained her perfect record in Shenzhen, winning all her singles matches and partnering Sara Errani to a decisive doubles victory in the semi-final against Ukraine.
“It’s amazing to show how we fight on court,” Paolini said. “Hopefully we are going to inspire some little girls.”
Cocciaretto called her win “incredible” and praised the Italian and Chinese fans for their support.
Italy’s six Billie Jean King Cup triumphs have all come since 2006. The United States remain record holders with 18 titles but have not won since 2017. Italy have now beaten them in six straight ties.
American captain Lindsay Davenport admitted disappointment. “We felt like we had a great opportunity but both of those ladies played great tennis,” she said.
