The United States reclaimed its place in the finals of the United Cup mixed team tournament after a dramatic semifinal against the Czech Republic on Saturday. The Americans secured their spot with unexpected twists, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown against Poland, which dominated Kazakhstan earlier the same day.
The pivotal moment for the U.S. came when Taylor Fritz faced off against Czech player Tomas Machac. Fritz initially lost the first set but fought back with determination. Machac, who had been serving to equalize the match at 1-1, abruptly retired due to cramping issues after losing multiple games, handing the U.S. the win at 7-6(4), 5-6.
“It’s great to be back (in the final),” Fritz said. “That was a crazy match, very physical, and it’s not the way I guess I wanted to win.” Despite the unusual ending, he expressed his joy at reaching the finals, especially after the tense match. “He said he had been cramping for a couple of games. I didn’t notice. He was moving pretty well. It’s really humid here ... tough conditions.”
Coco Gauff, the 2023 champion and world number three, set the tone for the Americans with her commanding performance against Karolina Muchova. Gauff brought home the first win for the U.S. with a convincing score of 6-1, 6-4.
“It’s never easy against Karolina,” Gauff acknowledged, reflecting on the rematch of their recent Beijing final. “The whole match I was intense and focused, and I think my focus made the difference today.”
On the other side of the bracket, Poland also displayed impressive form, reaching its second consecutive final at the United Cup. Star player Iga Swiatek defeated big-hitting Elena Rybakina 7-6(5), 6-4 to secure their win against Kazakhstan. Swiatek's performance, particularly after her earlier struggle against Katie Boulter, was both powerful and strategic.
“I think this was the first time I was able to win against Elena on a faster surface,” said Swiatek, who was visibly relieved after completing her two-hour battle. “I didn’t start well; I felt like I was on the handbrake. I knew I had to do something because this match could go both ways.”
Hurkacz contributed significantly to Poland's success as well, overcoming Alexander Shevchenko 6-3, 6-2 earlier on Saturday, setting the tone for the team's overall victory. “The last match here gave me confidence, and I’ve been playing consistently well since then,” Hurkacz remarked.
Completing the Polish effort, Maja Chwalinska and Jan Zielinski rounded out the team play by defeating Zhibek Kulambayeva and Shevchenko 6-4, 6-1, achieving a clean sweep against Kazakhstan. The victory secures Poland’s position to challenge the U.S. for the title on Sunday, making it their second consecutive appearance in the finals of the tournament.
With all the excitement as the United Cup reaches its climactic finish, the 18-team tournament stands as both preparation for and anticipation of the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 12. The stakes couldn’t be higher as both top-seeded teams gather their resources and strategies for the final match.
The upcoming final promises to be intense, with both the U.S. and Poland featuring players who already have their eyes set on bigger prizes. For players like Swiatek and Gauff, this match isn't just about nation pride but also about gaining momentum as they prepare for one of tennis's grandest stages.
With the elements of surprise and resilience showcased throughout the semifinals, fans can expect nothing short of extraordinary performances as the United Cup finally culminates this weekend.