The Canadians will face Italy on Sunday in the final of the Billie Jean King Cup in Seville (Spain). Canada won 2-1 in the semi-final against the Czech Republic on Saturday. He will play the first final in his history against Italy, who beat Slovenia 2-0.
Facing the Czechs, Gabriela Dabrowski and Leylah Fernandez, 8th and 20th in the world in doubles, gave Canada victory in the decisive match against Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova, 13th and 10th in the world. In a tight game, the Canadians managed to win at the end of the second set tie-break, 7-5, 7-6 (7/3). It was the first semi-final in which Canada participated in 35 years, against the Czechs, eleven times victorious in the competition.
“It was a great day for us,” said Leylah Fernandez. Gaby was always there to attack and gain the upper hand. I’m happy to have a great partner (Dabrowski), who can show me how to do it.” The first match of the day between the two teams however turned to the advantage of the Czech Republic. Barbora Krejcikova, 10th in the world in singles, beat the 258th at the WTA, Marina Stakusic, in a quick encounter (6-2, 6-1).
Canada managed to equalize thanks to the victory of Leylah Fernandez, 35th in the world in singles, against Marketa Vondrousova, 7th in the WTA ranking and champion at Wimbledon in 2023 (6-2, 2-6, 6-3). This is the Canadian’s first victory against a member of the top 10 since her victory against Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final of the US Open 2021. Italy or Canada will therefore succeed the Swiss, champions, on Sunday. during the 2022 edition.