Final Preview Billie Jean King Cup Finals: Jasmine Paolini aims to cap historic year for Italy against surprise finalist Slovakia

The Billie Jean King Cup final will see Jasmine Paolini’s Italy facing surprise finalists Slovakia, who have advanced to their second final despite lacking major stars. Lucia Bronzetti will kick off the action against Viktória Hrunčáková, while Paolini will face the in-form Rebecca Šrámková, who is currently enjoying the best moment of her career.

Italy’s road to the final

The Italians started their journey in the quarterfinals as the third seed, beginning against Japan. Elisabetta Cocciaretto (No. 54) suffered a defeat in the first match against Ena Shibahara (No. 135), which left Jasmine Paolini (No. 4) with the task of leading the comeback. She secured a victory against Moyuka Uchijima (No. 56) and then partnered with Sara Errani in doubles to defeat the Aoyama/Hozumi pair in straight sets, advancing to the semifinals.

It was a tough mission for the Italians as they faced Poland led by Iga Swiatek (No. 2). This time, Bronzetti secured the opening win against Magda Linette (No. 38), but Paolini couldn’t overcome Swiatek’s class, losing after taking the first set. Once again, Errani and Paolini were entrusted with clinching the series in doubles, and they delivered a straight-sets win over Swiatek and Kawa.

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Slovakia’s unprecedented final

This is only the second time Slovakia has reached the tournament final, with their last title victory dating back to 2002. The team has become accustomed to springing surprises, having defeated the USA with Danielle Collins, Australia with Ajla Tomljanovic, and Great Britain featuring Emma Raducanu and Katie Boulter on their way to the final. Without prominent names, Slovakia quietly advanced with a balanced team effort rather than relying on standout players.

Their No. 1 singles player is Rebecca Šrámková (No. 43), who broke into the top 100 for the first time in September and is the only player with three singles wins in the Finals draw. In the series against the USA, the second singles match was played by 17-year-old Renáta Jamrichová (No. 375), but after her loss, Viktória Hrunčáková (No. 241, former No. 43) took over. In doubles, Hrunčáková has consistently paired with Tereza Mihaliková (doubles No. 42).

Hrunčáková vs. Bronzetti

The Italian Bronzetti let a win slip away in the quarterfinals, where she was heavily favoured, squandering a one-set lead over Shibahara, leaving Paolini to shoulder the responsibility in the following match. However, her role became even more crucial in the semifinals, knowing Paolini would face Swiatek. Bronzetti delivered a straight-sets victory over Magda Linette, which proved vital for Italy’s advancement.

On the other hand, Hrunčáková recorded a win over Kimberly Birrell but suffered a loss against Emma Raducanu. The Slovak was ranked in the top 50 back in 2019 at just 21 years old, but injuries have hindered her consistency, leading to a significant ranking drop. Without titles or WTA Tour finals appearances, Hrunčáková seems to be at a clear disadvantage against the more experienced Bronzetti.

Šrámková vs. Paolini

Rebecca Šrámková is a name that may still be unfamiliar to many, with just four Grand Slam appearances (no wins so far) and her first WTA title secured two months ago at the Hua Hin Open. The 28-year-old Slovak has been on fire at the end of the year, boasting an 18-4 record since the US Open, including two other WTA 250 finals appearances.

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Without many credentials, she has nonetheless claimed notable wins this year against players like Sofia Kenin, Ekaterina Alexandrova, and Magda Linette. Šrámková has been a reliable force in all three of Slovakia’s wins this week, beating Collins, Tomljanovic, and Boulter. Facing Paolini, the highest-ranked opponent she’ll meet this week, will undoubtedly be her toughest challenge.

The 28-year-old Italian, Paolini, aims to cap off a golden season against Šrámková. This year, Paolini won a WTA 1000 title, reached two Grand Slam finals, secured an Olympic gold medal in Paris 2024 alongside Sara Errani in doubles, and finished the season as World No. 4 after her first WTA Finals appearance. She could now add the Billie Jean King Cup title to her collection.

Paolini showcased her class in the opening match, defeating Moyuka Uchijima in straight sets. The semifinals presented a greater challenge against the five-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek. Despite taking the first set, the Polish star staged a comeback in a clash of the Finals’ two highest-ranked players.

Jasmine Paolini at 2024 Wimbledon

Italy: The Clear Favourite?

On paper, Italy appears to be the clear favourite, but team events often leave more room for surprises, something Slovakia will continue to rely on. Bronzetti and Paolini face opponents who, on paper, have lesser rankings, but their ability to handle nerves will be key. If both perform well, they could secure the title without the need for doubles.

If the series go to a deciding doubles match, the pairing of Errani/Paolini has the upper hand against Hrunčáková/Mihaliková. The Italians have competed together all season, were the fourth seeds at the WTA Finals, and are the reigning Olympic gold medallists. On paper, Italy should have no trouble claiming the title. However, Slovakia has defied expectations in all three rounds this week and will undoubtedly be ready to aim for a historic triumph.