Kazakhstan ended Germany’s title defense at the United Cup on Wednesday, advancing to the semifinals.
Elena Rybakina secured a 6-3, 6-1 win over Laura Siegemund, giving Kazakhstan an early lead. Germany faced a setback when world number two Alexander Zverev withdrew due to a bicep strain.
His replacement, Daniel Masur, started strong but ultimately lost to Alexander Shevchenko 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-2. Shevchenko overcame heat challenges during the match, stating, “I was struggling in this heat, it was so rough.”
In another quarterfinal, the United States defeated China to reach the semifinals.Coco Gauffuai 7-6(4), 6-2, while Taylor Fritz beat Zhang Zhizhen 6-4, 6-4.
Gauff noted Zhang’s aggressive play, saying, “I felt like I couldn’t get her on defense.” Poland also advanced, with Iga Swiatek leading the team to a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic.
Swiatek won her singles match against Karolina Muchova and then partnered with Hubert Hurkacz to clinch the deciding mixed doubles.
Swiatek became the first player to secure 10 singles victories at the United Cup. Additionally, Britain secured a quarterfinal spot after Katie Boulter’s 6-2, 6-1 win over Australia.
