Paolini steers Italy past China in BJK
SHENZHEN: Jasmine Paolini rescued Italy’s Billie Jean King Cup title defence campaign by triumphing in singles and doubles to secure a 2-1 victory for her team over hosts China in the quarter-finals on Thursday.
Shenzen: Jasmine Paolini secured Italy's victory in the Billie Jean King Cup quarter-final against China, triumphing in both singles and doubles. After trailing 1-0 early in the tie, Italy rallied back to defeat hosts China 2-1, setting up a semi-final clash with Ukraine. Paolini and Sara Errani fought off fatigue and nerves to win the deciding doubles match 6-3, 5-7, 6-3, securing a place in the semi-finals.
In a tough match, Zhang Shuai defeated Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-0, 6-2, giving China an early lead. Paolini then rebounded, defeating Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) to keep Italy's hopes alive. Meanwhile, in another quarter-final, Ukrainian star Anhelina Kalinina led her team to a 2-1 victory over Belgium, contributing wins in both singles and doubles.
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