The quarterfinals of the United Cup saw some surprising results and notable performances. One of the major talking points was Novak Djokovic’s ongoing struggle with a wrist injury. Djokovic, who has been dealing with wrist problems throughout the tournament, faced a tough challenge against Alex de Minaur from Australia. Despite his best efforts, Djokovic was unable to overcome de Minaur’s strong defense and dominant serve, resulting in a 6-4, 6-4 defeat.
The Australian team put on a remarkable display, securing a 3-0 victory over Serbia. Djokovic’s defeat against de Minaur set the tone for the day. Ajla Tomljanovic followed up with a convincing 6-1, 6-1 win against Natalija Stevanovic. The doubles team of Matthew Ebden and Storm Hunter completed the rout with a 6-3, 6-3 triumph over Dejana Radanovic and Nikola Ćaćić. This exceptional performance from Australia marked their first-ever appearance in the semifinals of the United Cup.
Poland also dominated in their quarterfinal match against China, securing a 3-0 victory. Hubert Hurkacz started the momentum by defeating Zhang Zhizhen with a score of 6-3, 6-4. The top-ranked Iga Swiatek extended Poland’s lead with a comfortable 6-2, 6-3 win against Zheng Qinwen. The Polish team sealed the sweep in the mixed doubles with a hard-fought 6-3, 5-7, 10-7 victory by Katarzyna Piter and Jan Zieliński over You Xiaodi and Sun Fajing.
In another impressive performance, France secured a 3-0 win over Italy. Adrian Mannarino set the tone with a straight-sets victory over Lorenzo Sonego. Caroline Garcia faced a tougher challenge against Jasmine Paolini but managed to come out on top with a 6-4, 5-7, 6-4 win. Elixane Lechemia and Edouard Roger-Vasselin completed the sweep with a comfortable straight-sets win in the mixed doubles.
Greece showcased their potential with a strong start. Stefanos Tsitsipas returned to action after missing Greece’s opener against Chile and defeated Canada’s Steven Diez in straight sets. Maria Sakkari then secured Greece’s spot in the quarterfinals with a remarkable comeback against Leylah Fernandez, saving four set points in the first set and fighting back from 3-1 down in the second set to win 7-6 (2), 6-3. Tsitsipas and Despina Papamichail finished off by defeating Stacey Fung and Felix Auger-Aliassime in the mixed doubles with a score of 7-5, 6-4.
Following their victories in the quarterfinals, Australia and Poland will face off in the semifinals. The Australian team will travel to Sydney for the next stage, while Poland will enjoy a few days off before they head to Sydney. The matchup between France and Greece will also take place in Sydney. Both teams will be aiming to continue their impressive runs and secure a spot in the final.
The quarterfinals of the United Cup provided thrilling matches and surprising outcomes. Novak Djokovic’s struggle with a wrist injury was a major talking point, while Australia, Poland, France, and Greece delivered dominant performances to secure their spots in the semifinals. The stage is now set for two exciting matchups in Sydney, as the remaining teams compete for a chance to lift the United Cup trophy.
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