Rybakina downs Kerber, Kazakhstan defeats Germany in Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers

Elena Rybakina secured the 3rd point for her nation with which Kazakhstan defeats Germany in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.

After a superb day yesterday for the home team and the 2-0 lead, Rybakina had the chance to clinch it with a win against Angelique Kerber. She pulled through winning a very close 3-setter when she had to come back in the final set from a break down to win the match. The start of the match featured some nerves by Rybakina who was able to win her serves but Kerber had a few break points she did not use.

Eventually, the German did find a breakthrough and she served out the first set with 6-4. Germany needed this point to stay alive and Kerber was determined to get it done. After holding from 15-40 in the first game of the 2nd set Rybakina started to take more risks. It paid off as she broke her opponent taking the 3-0 lead. Boosted with that confidence Rybakina served out the set 6-3.

The excitement did not fade in the 3rd set either as players traded early breaks to keep the tension up. They then traded breaks once more a couple of games later with the score still being tied at 3-3. Eventually, Kerber did find another breakthrough taking a 5-3 lead and coming very close to victory. However, Rybakina completely loosened up and started going for it.

Winner after winner was blasted as Kerber could only watch what was happening. The player from Kazakhstan won four games in a row to finish it off 7-5 sending her nation to the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.