PERTH/SYDNEY – Defending champions the United States and tournament favorites Poland have secured their places in the United Cup semi-finals following a day of high-stakes tennis across Australia.
World number four Coco Gauff was the standout performer in Perth, overcoming a recent slump to lead the U.S. past Greece. After a surprising loss to Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro earlier in the week, Gauff rebounded with a dominant 6-3, 6-2 victory over Maria Sakkari.
The tie moved to a deciding mixed doubles match after Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas leveled the score by defeating a struggling Taylor Fritz 6-4, 7-5. Partnering with Christian Harrison, Gauff displayed remarkable poise to edge out the elite Greek duo of Tsitsipas and Sakkari in a tense 4-6, 6-4, 10-8 battle.
“Definitely a much better match today,” Gauff remarked, noting the importance of moving past her previous defeat. “That’s the beauty of this tournament. I’m happy to give my team the lead.”
Meanwhile, in Sydney, Poland continued their clinical run. World number two Iga Swiatek comfortably dispatched the Netherlands’ Suzan Lamens 6-3, 6-2. Poland’s victory was cemented by Hubert Hurkacz, who showed impressive form in his return from a seven-month hiatus following knee surgery. Hurkacz defeated Tallon Griekspoor 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) to secure Poland’s spot in the final four.
Poland is now set to face host nation Australia, with the victor moving on to challenge the United States for a place in Sunday’s championship final.
In other action, Switzerland narrowly advanced past Argentina in Perth. While Stan Wawrinka fell to Sebastian Baez, Belinda Bencic remained perfect on the day, winning her singles match and later teaming with Jakub Paul to claim the deciding mixed doubles point.