United Cup Tennis Matches 2024 kicked off with enthusiasm as players returned to the court, showcasing their skills and determination post-break. This year’s edition, taking place at the Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney, marks the beginning of the United Cup, recognized as the premier combined ATP Tour and WTA event.
One of the most notable stories on the opening day was Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic's triumphant return after maternity leave. Bencic secured the first victory for Switzerland by defeating Chloe Paquet decisively, with scores of 6-3, 6-1. She expressed her joy upon returning to competitive tennis, saying, "I'm really excited to be back, of course." Bencic acknowledged the nerves she felt at the start and the rustiness typical of returning athletes, but added, "I had a little bit of nerves at the start and a little bit of rust, so I'm happy I kind of accepted… After, I felt like it went smoother, I became a little bit more calm…"
The match began favorably for Bencic, as she quickly found her rhythm. From 2-3 down, she managed to win four consecutive games, showcasing her powerful backhand, culminating with seven backhand winners against Paquet, who had achieved her first Top 100 ranking earlier this year.
Following Bencic’s victory, Ugo Humbert from France provided his nation with hope, leveling the tie at 1-1 after defeating Dominic Stricker 6-3, 7-5. Humbert, reflecting on his first match of the year, remarked, "It was the first match of the year, so it was not easy after the preseason. I worked well… super happy about my win today." His match demonstrated tenacity, overcoming initial setbacks to seal his victory over Stricker.
The synergy of national representation during the United Cup adds to its vibrancy, as players not only compete individually but also bear the hopes of their teammates and countries. The next match is set to depend on the decisive mixed doubles matchup featuring Bencic and Stricker against the French duo, Elixane Lechemia and Edouard Roger-Vasselin. Both teams will be vying for the glory and advancement of their respective countries.
Bencic, who welcomed her daughter Bella just last year, praised the changes motherhood has brought to her life, stating, "I definitely have a huge respect to all the moms there, what a woman goes through… everything is amazing." This sentiment resonates with many athletes who balance careers and family life, making her comeback not just a personal victory but also inspiration for other working mothers.
The 2024 United Cup features 18 national teams playing matches between December 27 and January 5 across venues in Sydney and Perth, Australia. Key teams this year include the United States, Greece, China, Canada, and many others vying for early-season prominence as they kick off the new tennis season.
Fans eagerly anticipate the remaining matches where top players will encounter fierce competition and remarkable displays of skill, setting the tone for the year ahead. The return of players like Bencic and her strength on the court after motherhood injects both excitement and inspiration, reflecting the resilience of athletes everywhere.
