Billie Jean King Cup: Chris Evert Turns Jubilant Over Team Italy’s Joyous Celebrations After Becoming Champions

Team Italy triumphed in the Billie Jean King Cup, winning their first title since 2013. The team showcased their strength by defeating top competitors like Japan and Poland, including star player Iga Swiatek. Ultimately, they took down the underdogs Slovakia 2-0 in the finals – earning respect from tennis legend Chris Evert!

From the start of the tournament, Team Italy proved they weren’t taking things lightly. Their stellar lineup featured world no. 4 Jasmine Paolini, Martina Trevisan, Elisabetta Cocciaretto, Lucia Bronzetti, and veteran Sara Errani who has waited 11 years for this moment. They were under the guidance of captain Tathiana Garbin who certainly had calculations done in her mind. After falling to Canada in 2023, they rose to the occasion and clinched victory in Malaga on November 20th.

The final began with Lucia Bronzetti claiming the opening point against Viktoria Hruncakova, winning 6-2, 6-4. Paolini then sealed the deal with a commanding 6-2, 6-1 victory over an in-form Rebecca Sramkova. The spirit of the Italian team shone through – prompting former WTA champion Evert to congratulate them on X: “Congratulations to Team Italy! Look at those smiles… What a year! You all exude so much spirit and joy and fun… Great messaging and role models for the sport!👏👍💪” She replied to Paolini’s tweet with images of her and the team in their victory moments.

ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Billie Jean King Cup (@billiejeankingcup)

ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad

This victory marked Italy’s fifth BJK Cup title and came with a $2.4 million prize and iconic Tory Burch-designed ‘Billie Blue’ jackets presented by Billie Jean King herself during the trophy ceremony. The win was monumental for all players involved as they hoisted the trophy and took a bow at the end of the event. They later shared their experiences, expressing just how significant this achievement was for the team!

Billie Jean King Cup Champions can’t believe their “dream” has come true

This year, Team Italy seemed to be on a mission to bring home the trophy—not just for Italy, but for Tathiana. Who bravely battled rare stomach cancer and underwent a second procedure, ultimately becoming a source of inspiration for them. Following their victory, Jasmine Paolini captured the spirit perfectly when she said, “It feels amazing. It’s a big competition. You play for your country, your team, and all the staff behind the scenes.” She added, “For Tathiana, last year was tough. We’re glad to be here with the trophy. The important thing is that she’s healthy now, and this trophy is a plus.”

ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad

Garbin herself expressed how special it was to be back in Malaga, calling her presence “a gift.” She wanted to support her players in every way possible after they stood by her during her illness. “I have all the team behind me,” she said. “On the bench, I try to give courage and support because that’s what they did for me in tough moments.” You could feel the pride radiating from her as she spoke about her team: “I’m very proud of these girls—not just champions but great human beings.” It was clear that this win was about more than just tennis; it was about unity and resilience.

Not to mention snagging Olympic gold in doubles with Sara Errani! “It’s been a crazy year,” Paolini exclaimed. “I don’t have words to describe it.” Meanwhile, Lucia Bronzetti stepped up big time in her first BJK Cup matches, winning crucial points against Poland and Slovakia. And let’s not forget Sara Errani! After not playing in the BJK Cup since 2019, she returned with a bang, helping secure vital victories in doubles. “If I can help them even a little bit, it’s amazing,” she said. Together, this team made history and celebrated their victory as one united family. What a season for Italian tennis!

Click here to read article