Canada’s Leylah Fernandez led her team to their first-ever Billie Jean King Cup title with a 2-0 victory over Italy in Seville. Fernandez maintained her impressive form throughout the week, defeating Jasmine Paolini 6-2 6-3 to secure the decisive point. After the match, the Canadian team celebrated their historic win in front of their ecstatic fans. Canada’s captain, Heidi El Tabakh, expressed her pride in the team’s incredible performance, calling it a dream come true.
Earlier in the tournament, teenager Marina Stakusic set Canada on the path to victory with a remarkable win over Martina Trevisan. Despite some tense moments when four match points slipped away, Stakusic remained composed and closed out the match with a powerful forehand winner. Stakusic, who had not played a WTA main draw match this year, described the experience as the best week of her life.
In the final singles match, Fernandez continued her heroics by defeating Jasmine Paolini, securing her fourth singles win of the week. Fernandez’s outstanding performances throughout the tournament, including her victory over Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova, played a crucial role in Canada’s success. She credited her teammates, particularly Eugenie Bouchard, for their contributions to the team’s triumph.
As a result of their victory, Canada’s team will receive a record-breaking $2.4 million in prize money. They were also presented with the trophy by Billie Jean King herself, and each team member received a blue jacket reminiscent of King’s iconic style. King congratulated Canada on their achievement and expressed her excitement for the future of the tournament.
Canada’s win marks the 13th nation to claim the Billie Jean King Cup, following Switzerland’s victory the previous year. The team’s remarkable performance and well-deserved title have solidified their status as world champions.
