Italian Olympic gold medalists Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini secured a dramatic 2-1 win over Poland on Monday, earning Italy a spot in the Billie Jean King Cup final for the second consecutive year. The Italians overcame a valiant effort from Poland in an intense showdown in Malaga, Spain.
Lucia Bronzetti gave Italy an early lead by defeating Magda Linette in straight sets, 6-4, 7-6(3), in the opening singles match. However, world number two Iga Swiatek kept Poland’s hopes alive with a hard-fought comeback victory against Paolini. Swiatek triumphed 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 in a closely contested singles match that lasted 2 hours and 36 minutes, pushing the tie into a decisive doubles match.
Paolini, who had never beaten Swiatek in their previous encounters—including a one-sided loss in the French Open final earlier this year—showed resilience in the opening set of the singles. However, Swiatek’s ability to perform under pressure made the difference, breaking Paolini’s serve in the final game of each of the last two sets to secure the win.
In the doubles clash, Swiatek partnered with Katarzyna Kawa in a rare appearance for the five-time Grand Slam champion, who last played Billie Jean King Cup doubles in 2019. The Polish duo mounted an impressive challenge against Italy’s Errani and Paolini, the reigning Paris 2024 Olympic champions.
The Italians showcased grit and determination, saving three set points in the opening set and rallying from a 5-1 deficit in the second to seal a 7-5, 7-5 victory. The win marked Italy’s seventh trip to the Billie Jean King Cup final and their second in a row, following a runner-up finish to Canada in 2023.
“It was incredibly tough; the intensity was unbelievable. I was exhausted, but I had to give everything for my team and my country,” Paolini shared after the match. Reflecting on her singles loss to Swiatek, she added, “I was disappointed, but I went to the locker room and stayed positive because I knew my teammates needed me.”
Italy now awaits the winner of the semi-final between Britain and Slovakia, with the championship match set for Wednesday. As they aim for their first title since 2013, the Italians will look to channel the same resilience and teamwork that propelled them to victory against Poland.
