SYDNEY: Kazakhstan knocked out defending champions Germany from the United Cup on Wednesday, while the United States stormed into the semifinals with a commanding win over China in the mixed team tennis tournament.
Elena Rybakina set the tone for Kazakhstan with a dominant 6-3, 6-1 victory over Laura Siegemund in the opening match of the knockout stage. Germany’s woes deepened when Alexander Zverev withdrew minutes before his match due to a bicep injury, leaving Daniel Masur to step in. Despite a strong start, Masur fell to Alexander Shevchenko 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-2, sealing Kazakhstan’s 2-0 triumph.
Shevchenko overcame intense heat and physical struggles, including a medical timeout, to deliver a gutsy performance. “It was rough, but I just kept pushing and I’m thrilled with the win,” he said.
Meanwhile, the United States cruised past China, with Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz clinching singles victories. Gauff overcame Zhang Shuai 7-6(4), 6-2, despite a shaky start and several double faults, while Fritz secured a decisive 6-4, 6-4 win against Zhang Zhizhen.
Elsewhere, Iga Swiatek powered Poland to a 2-1 win over the Czech Republic in Group B. Swiatek defeated Karolina Muchova 6-3, 6-4 before teaming up with Hubert Hurkacz in the mixed doubles to secure a quarterfinal berth.
In Group F, Britain advanced as group leaders after Katie Boulter dispatched Olivia Gadecki 6-2, 6-1 in a commanding performance. Despite strong showings from Australia’s Alex de Minaur, Britain’s progression was already secured.
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