Kazakhstan pulled off a stunning 2-0 victory over defending champions Germany in the United Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday, securing their place in the semi-finals. Elena Rybakina and Alexander Shevchenko delivered match-winning performances in Perth, capitalizing on Germany’s misfortunes.
World number six Rybakina set the tone with a commanding 6-3, 6-1 win over Laura Siegemund in the opening match. Germany’s hopes took a hit when Alexander Zverev withdrew moments before his singles match due to a bicep strain, forcing Daniel Masur to step in. Despite a strong start, Masur fell to Shevchenko 6-7, 6-2, 6-2, sealing Kazakhstan’s victory.
| Kazakhstan vs. Germany | Score |
|---|---|
| Elena Rybakina def. Laura Siegemund | 6-3, 6-1 |
| Alexander Shevchenko def. Daniel Masur | 6-7, 6-2, 6-2 |
“It was a struggle in this heat. He made me run a lot, he was more aggressive,” said Shevchenko, who adjusted brilliantly after the first set to take control.
Swiatek Leads Poland into Quarter-Finals
In Sydney, world number two Iga Swiatek spearheaded Poland to a dramatic 2-1 win over the Czech Republic, clinching their spot in the quarter-finals. Tomas Machac initially put the Czechs ahead with a 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 win over Hubert Hurkacz.
Swiatek leveled the tie with a hard-fought 6-3, 6-4 victory against Karolina Muchova before teaming up with Hurkacz to win the decisive mixed doubles 7-6, 6-3.
| Poland vs. Czech Republic | Score |
|---|---|
| Tomas Machac def. Hubert Hurkacz | 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 |
| Iga Swiatek def. Karolina Muchova | 6-3, 6-4 |
| Swiatek/Hurkacz def. Machac/Muchova | 7-6, 6-3 |
Swiatek’s victory marked her 10th singles win at the United Cup, a historic milestone. “I was sure they were going to play amazing tennis,” Swiatek said, praising her opponents. “But I knew that we have the game to win it.”
Looking Ahead
Kazakhstan’s stunning upset and Poland’s inspired performance set the stage for exciting semi-final clashes. Both teams will aim to build on their momentum as they vie for the prestigious mixed-team title.
