Italy’s path to the Billie Jean King Cup final in Shenzhen began with a setback. In the opening singles match, Marta Kostyuk delivered a commanding performance to defeat Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-2, 6-3, giving Ukraine an early lead. Cocciaretto, who had staged heroic comebacks in the quarterfinals, struggled to find rhythm against the aggressive Ukrainian, leaving Italy with no margin for error.
Paolini’s comeback keeps Italy alive
Jasmine Paolini stepped onto the court for the second singles match, facing Elina Svitolina, who had beaten her twice earlier this season. After dropping the first set 3-6 and trailing 2-4 in the second, Paolini dug deep and turned the match around with relentless energy and precision. She won the next four games to take the second set 6-4, then held her nerve in the third to close out the match 6-4. “I’m so happy we’re still alive. It’s always tough against Elina. I’m really happy that we’re still there, we’re still fighting,” said Paolini after her victory.
Doubles duo delivers the final blow
With the tie level at 1-1, Paolini returned to the court alongside veteran Sara Errani for the decisive doubles match against Kostyuk and Lyudmyla Kichenok. The Italian pair started strong, taking the first set 6-2 with sharp net play and tactical serving. In the second set, Ukraine led 3-1 and had a chance to extend their lead, but a double fault shifted momentum. Italy capitalized, winning five straight games to seal the match 6-2, 6-3. “It was a tough day for Jasmine. She’s doing an incredible job. It’s not easy to play doubles after a tough singles match, but she’s so strong and I’m so happy to have her as a partner,”
said Errani.A historic run continues
With this 2-1 victory over Ukraine, Italy advances to the Billie Jean King Cup final for the third year in a row, becoming the first nation to do so since Czechia’s run from 2014 to 2016. Led by captain Tathiana Garbin, the team will face either the United States or Great Britain in Sunday’s final. “We play with heart, with pride, and with belief. That’s what keeps us going,” Garbin said. Italy’s dream of defending their title is alive—and once again, it’s Paolini and Errani leading the charge.
Jasmine Paolini in 2025
Ranked no.8, Jasmine played her last match on the 19th of September when she defeated world no.13 Elina Svitolina 3-6 6-4 6-4 in the Rubber 2 in (draw).
Until now, during this year Jasmine owns a compiled 37-15 match record. The Italian has won 1 title in Rome. Paolini was the finalist in Cincinnati.