There were only two alternatives left for the Great Britain team at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals: win every game or leave. On Thursday, they returned to the Emirates Arena for a crucial. The decisive encounter against Spain.
With their backs against the wall. They responded to the challenge and accomplished the biggest feat for the British women’s team in years, defeating Spain 3-0 to go to the BJK Cup semifinals for the first time since 1981. Saturday’s semi-final will feature Australia vs Britain.
Following Heather Watson’s 6-0
6-2 victory against Nuria Parrizas-Diaz to start the match. Harriet Dart faced up against Paula Badosa, the world No. 13, and won 6-3, 6-4 to force a decider in the doubles match.
When Olivia Nicholls and Alicia Barnett, a debutant doubles specialist combination, were forced to compete for a semi-final in their first live rubber, they handled the circumstances brilliantly and defeated Aliona Bolsova and Rebeka Masarova 7-6(5), 6-2 to earn the triumph of their life.
The GB captain, Anne Keothavong, described the occasion as “historic.” “You all know why we are privileged to be in this tournament but to deliver and go to the semi-finals, I mean, it’s unbelievable. Really, it is. It depends on the participants. Yes, it was fantastic how they tackled the game today.
Spain defeated Kazakhstan 3-0 on Wednesday night, which meant that they just needed to win one match to get to the semifinals. By choosing the seasoned Watson to fill Katie Boulter’s position as the second player, Keothavong made a huge adjustment.
The choice was a complete success. Watson, who is presently ranked 115th in the world, was perfect. The 30-year-old defeated the Spaniard in only 67 minutes by playing aggressively. Attacking tennis with little mistakes.
Badosa, who earlier this year held the No. 2 spot in the world rankings. Appeared to be the biggest threat to the tie. Despite being completely outmatched by Elena Rybakina on Tuesday, Dart, who is ranked 98th. Entered the match determined to play on her terms.
