Ukraine loses to Czech Republic in Billie Jean King Cup final

Shenzen, China (AP) — Elina Svitolina's triumphant racket slam signalled Ukraine's entry into the Billie Jean King Cup final for the first time. The seventh-ranked player secured a 2-0 victory over Italy by defeating Jasmine Paolini 6-2, 6-2 in the women's tennis team event semifinals. There was disappointment for Svitolina in last year's competition, where she lost the semifinal to Paolini, but this time, she remained focused and delivered a stellar performance.

Svitolina, who has been a prominent voice for Ukraine amidst the country's ongoing conflict with Russia, expressed her joy at finally reaching the final. Paolini, who had been on a 10-match winning streak, was the defending champion in this year's competition. In the other semifinal, Ukraine defeated Belgium 2-1. The Czech Republic, led by Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova, will face Ukraine in the final.

Czechia previously won 11 titles in the competition, previously known as the Fed Cup, while the United States, which failed to qualify for the finals, holds the record for the most victories with 18 titles.