Europe/Africa I: Denmark seal final spot in Play-offs
13/04/2024 22:18
Denmark joined the Netherlands, Austria and Serbia in the Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge Play-offs on a thrilling final day of Europe/Africa Group I action in Oeiras, Portugal
By Kevin Palmer
Clara Tauson secured a stunning win against Greece’s Maria Sakkari on Friday to put Denmark in contention for a Play-off spot and she was a key player once again as her team beat Latvia 2-0 on Saturday.
Denmark’s success was kick-started by impressive 19-year-old Johanne Christine Svendsen, who beat16-year-old Adelina Lachinova.
Tauson then sealed victory when her opponent, Darja Semenistaja, was forced to retire after the Danish player won the first set 6-1.
The victory extended Tauson’s record to an impressive 14-4 in singles in the Billie Jean King Cup.
In the battle between the top two nations in Europe/Africa Group I, the Netherlands sealed a 2-1 win against Austria.
With both nations already assured of a place in November’s Play-offs, this was a chance to finish off a successful week with a decisive victory.
It was the Netherlands who did just that as they came from behind to secure a 2-1 win, with a tense doubles match deciding the outcome.
Two-time former Wimbledon quarter-finalist Tamira Paszek has been a stand-out performer for Austria over the last few days and she completed a perfect week of singles wins by beating Anouk Koevermans to record her 12th singles win in the Billie Jean King Cup.
The Austrian has had health issues that have forced her back to the bottom of the tennis ladder, with fine performances representing her country in recent days certain to boost her confidence as she looks to climb the rankings once again.
Paszek’s brilliance was not enough to give Austria a win against the Netherlands, as Sinja Kraus lost against Suzan Lamens, forcing the tie into a decisive doubles.
The Netherlands had doubles expert Demi Schuurs to call upon and she teamed up with Lamens to beat Paszek and Kraus 7-5 6-3.
Serbia will join the Netherlands, Austria and Denmark in the Play-offs in November after they topped Pool C.
Türkiye wrapped up 7th place as they secured a win against Hungary, with Portugal avoiding relegation after a tense win against Bulgaria.
This match was decided in doubles, with the Jorge sisters Francisca and Matilde teaming up to get the crucial win.
It meant Bulgaria joined Norway in being relegated to Europe/Africa Group II.
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