Italy Out In Shenzhen: Ukraine Wins 2-0

Italy lost 2-0 to Ukraine in the Billie Jean King Cup 2026 semifinal, today, September 26, in Shenzhen. Anhelina Kalinina opened the day by beating Tyra Caterina Grant 6-3, 6-4, then Elina Svitolina closed it out past Jasmine Paolini 6-2, 6-2. The Italians, champions in 2024 and 2025, miss out on a third straight title.

It's Ukraine's first final in the competition's history. "This is a special moment for us, for Ukraine", said Svitolina, the world number 7.

"Back home everyone is going through hard times. It's incredible to reach a final for the first time."

A year ago, also in Shenzhen, Svitolina had lost to Paolini after leading by a set and 4-2. This time she left her nothing.

The first point had already slipped away earlier, with Grant, eighteen, sent out for her competition debut. Kalinina beat her in two sets, and from there Italy had to chase the tie with the full weight on Paolini's shoulders.

On Sunday, September 27, Ukraine faces the Czech Republic in the final, who eliminated Spain 2-0 with Karolína Muchová and Linda Nosková. The Czechs have won the trophy eleven times, but hadn't played for the title since 2018.