Team USA claimed the title at the 2025 United Cup Finals, with Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz delivering compelling performances to secure their victory over Team Poland on January 5, 2025, in Sydney, Australia.
Coco Gauff opened the finals with a significant win against Poland’s Iga Swiatek, solidifying her status as one of the top players on the tour. Capping off the match with authoritative strokes, Gauff sealed the first point for the USA with a two-set victory, triumphing 6-4, 6-4. This win was particularly notable as it marked Gauff's second consecutive victory over Swiatek, having previously defeated the former world number one at the WTA Finals.
The match, which lasted just under two hours, showcased Gauff's skill and confidence as she continued her impressive streak. After the match, she reflected on her performance, stating, "I think I have the belief I am one of the best players in the world, and when I play good tennis, it’s hard for me to be beaten." With her victory, Gauff heads confidently to the Australian Open, remaining unbeaten in her singles matches since her last loss to world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
Following Gauff's win, Taylor Fritz faced off against Hubert Hurkacz. The match turned out to be closely contested, with Fritz edging out Hurkacz 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 (7/4) to clinch the United Cup title for Team USA. This victory marked the second time the USA has triumphed at this mixed-team event since its inception. Fritz commented on the intensity of the match, noting, "They’re an incredibly tough team and the margins are very small. I feel like it could have always gone either way. Just want to say thanks to my whole team."
The victory celebration highlighted the synergy and determination exhibited by the American team, which, under pressure, delivered stellar performances throughout the tournament. Fritz's serve-dominated game led to significant exchanges, with both players showcasing over 30 aces among them. During the gripping final set, Fritz managed to gain the upper hand by winning the tiebreaker decisively.
For Team Poland, this loss felt particularly heavy, as they had fallen once again at the final hurdle, having lost to Germany at the previous year’s event. Despite the disappointment, Hubert Hurkacz expressed pride over his progress and effort, saying, "I'm not sure how it will go in the Grand Slam... Still, I'm happy with how things are going and see the light at the end of the tunnel.” This statement highlights the challenges he faced during his time off-court, giving hope for his upcoming matches.
The match also had its share of emotional moments, particularly between Danielle Collins and Iga Swiatek. Collins did not compete during the final but became the focus of attention after her noticeably cold handshake with Swiatek. The tension between the two players dates back to the 2024 Olympics when Collins accused Swiatek of insincerity following Collins' injury-induced retirement. Reflecting on her feelings following the match, Collins stated, "I haven’t had the best experience and I don’t really feel like anybody needs to be insincere." Her sentiments encapsulate the emotional windfall of competition at these high-stakes events.
Despite these off-court tensions, Gauff's outstanding performance was reinforced by her determination and relentless drive, as she opened the final on such solid ground. After her victory, she expressed satisfaction with her play, underscoring her desire to represent her country effectively.
Overall, the 2025 United Cup not only showcased remarkable tennis battles but also illuminated the underlying narratives of rivalry, resilience, and the quest for glory. With Team USA lifting the trophy high, they signal their readiness as they prepare for the upcoming Australian Open, bringing their momentum and confidence to the next Grand Slam event.