Italy qualified for the final of the 2025 Billie Jean King Cup by defeating Ukraine 2-1 in the semifinals played in Shenzhen, China.
Marta Kostyuk had given Ukraine the lead by beating Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-2, 6-3. However, Jasmine Paolini came back against Elina Svitolina to win 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, leveling the tie.
In the deciding doubles match, Paolini teamed up with Sara Errani and together they defeated Kostyuk and Lyudmyla Kichenok 6-2, 6-3, sealing their place in the final.
Paolini, who has already won Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal in 2024, thus reaffirms her central role in Italian women's tennis. Her leadership fuels a historic moment for Italy, which also won this tournament in 2024.
Italian tennis is experiencing a golden era: on the men's side, Jannik Sinner led Italy to Davis Cup titles in 2023 and 2024, while on the women's side, the national team is looking to repeat last year's title.
Sources cited:
Reuters. *Paolini sparks as Italy overcomes Ukraine to reach Billie Jean King Cup final*. https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/italy-overcome-ukraine-reach-billie-jean-king-cup-final-2025-09-19/
X / Jasmine Paolini. https://x.com/JasminePaolini/status/1969114449307894219