In a thrilling opener at the United Cup in Sydney, host nation Australia faced a surprising 2-1 defeat against Argentina, despite a stellar performance by Alex de Minaur. The world No. 9 showcased his talent with a commanding 6-1, 6-4 victory over Tomas Martin Etcheverry, levelling the tie after teammate Olivia Gadecki fell to Nadia Podoroska 6-2, 6-4 in the women’s singles.
The atmosphere at the Ken Rosewall Arena was electric as de Minaur took control of his match, raising hopes for an Australian triumph. However, the decisive mixed doubles clash saw Etcheverry return alongside Maria Carle to challenge Australia’s Matt Ebden and Ellen Perez. The Argentine pair secured a 6-2, 6-4 win, sealing the overall victory for Argentina.
Meanwhile, in Group D, former Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic led Switzerland to a narrow 2-1 win over France. Making her first Tour-level appearance since the 2023 US Open, Bencic defeated Chloe Paquet 6-3, 6-1, winning ten of the last eleven games. Although teammate Dominic Stricker was edged out by Ugo Humbert 6-3, 7-5, Bencic teamed up with Stricker in the mixed doubles. Together, they overcame Edouard Roger-Vasselin and Elixane Lechemia 6-1, 7-6(4), clinching the victory for Switzerland.
Over in Group A in Perth, Canada bounced back after Felix Auger-Aliassime’s unexpected singles loss to defeat Croatia 2-1. Leylah Fernandez set the tone with a solid 6-4, 6-3 win against Donna Vekic. Despite Auger-Aliassime’s setback against Borna Coric, losing 0-6, 6-4, 6-4, the Canadian duo rallied in the mixed doubles. Fernandez and Auger-Aliassime secured a decisive 6-3, 6-4 victory over Lucija Ciric Bagaric and Ivan Dodig, propelling Canada to success.
The United Cup continues to highlight the depth and excitement of international tennis, with fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming matches as teams battle for supremacy.
Reference(s):
De Minaur wins but host Australia falls to Argentina at United Cup
cgtn.com
