STARNBERG, September 19, 2025
Defending champions Italy came from behind to defeat Ukraine and advance to the final for a third straight year on a dramatic day at the 2025 Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge Finals in Shenzhen.
Marta Kostyuk eased to victory against Elisabetta Cocciaretto to put Ukraine 1-0 up, and Elina Svitolina went a set and a break ahead in her match against Jasmine Paolini to leave the Ukrainians on the brink of a first appearance in the Billie Jean King Cup final.
But Paolini fought back admirably, recovering to beat Svitolina in three sets send the tie into the decisive doubles match. She was joined by regular doubles partner Sara Errani for that clash, and the Italian duo recorded a straight-sets win against Kostyuk and Lyudmyla Kichenok to send the team into Sunday’s final.
The winning moment @federtennis | #BJKCup pic.twitter.com/6jHwMZOZkI
— Billie Jean King Cup (@BJKCup) September 19, 2025
“Today was really amazing. I think the crowd really helped me in the tough moments, especially in the singles,” Paolini said. “It’s really a pleasure to play in front of that crowd. They push us through the win, also in doubles. It’s great to have them pushing us and cheering for us. Hopefully they’re coming also on Sunday and hopefully they will be cheering for us.”
Italy defeated Ukraine 2-1
Marta Kostyuk (UKR) d. Elisabetta Cocciaretto (ITA) 6-2 6-3
Jasmine Paolini (ITA) d. Elina Svitolina (UKR) 3-6 6-4 6-4
Sara Errani/Jasmine Paolini (ITA) d. Lyudmyla Kichenok/Marta Kostyuk (UKR) 6-2 6-3
