Italy are one step closer to securing a second Billie Jean King Cup after coming back from a point down to beat Ukraine.
The defending champions trailed 1-0 after Marta Kostyuk defeated Elisabetta Cocciaretto on Friday night.
Ukraine’s lead did not last for long, however, as former Wimbledon finalist Jasmine Paolini came through a gruelling three-setter against Elina Svitolina, before clinching the decisive point in doubles with Sara Errani.
After their triumph, Italy’s Billie Jean King Cup captain, Tathiana Garbin, claimed their side had made history.
Photo by Zhe Ji/Getty Images for Billie Jean King CupTathiana Garbin reacts to Italy’s win at the Billie Jean King Cup
In her post-match press conference, Garbin said: “I like to have these girls with me. They fight every ball. Every time they wear the national jacket, they put extra efficiency on court.
“I think it’s a historical moment for Italian tennis, not just men. Today again they show how strong they are when they have a dream and they are running for the same dream.
“They are building a great unity. I’m just lucky to be here and be present with these magnificent girls.
“It’s an unbelievable moment. The girls show how is the fight, how is to give your heart for your country, to give a lot of proud to be here in the final.
“They show really the unity. Here all the team is in the conference because it’s all part of this big win.”
Photo by Lintao Zhang/Getty Images for Billie Jean King CupJasmine Paolini left shocked at Italy’s comeback victory
Tie-winner Paolini said of her match with Svitolina: “I don’t know how I turned around this match. I did it. I stayed there at all the points.
“This time I was a bit more lucky than her maybe. The last time I lost with match point (smiling).
It’s tennis. It happens. This time I’m happy I stayed there. I tried to find a solution to beat her.
“I think she’s a very great player, a strong player. Every time, it’s a fight against her. It wasn’t easy.
“I have to thank the bench, of course, the captain, and everyone who was there trying to push myself through the match. Yeah, I’m really happy that we managed to win this tie.”
Italy are now through to their third consecutive final at the Billie Jean King Cup, having finished as runners-up in 2023.