Japan and Slovakia complete spectacular comebacks to secure spots in BJK Cup quarterfinals

Japan and Slovakia achieved remarkable comebacks to defeat Romania and the United States 2-1, respectively, securing their places in the quarter-finals of the Billie Jean King Cup on Thursday.

In a gripping doubles match that extended into the early hours of Friday, Viktoria Hruncakova and Tereza Mihalikova showcased their resilience by overcoming Ashlyn Krueger and Taylor Townsend with a score of 6-3, 3-6, 10-8 in the match tiebreak.

The United States initially took the lead when Townsend triumphed over Renata Jamrichova with a score of 7-5, 6-4. However, Rebecca Sramkova responded with a determined performance, defeating Danielle Collins 6-2, 7-5, which set the stage for the decisive doubles match that enabled Slovakia to secure their hard-earned comeback during the opening days of competition in Malaga, southern Spain.

Slovakia is set to face Australia on Sunday.

Earlier on Thursday, Japan also mounted a comeback to defeat Romania 2-1, marking their first quarter-final appearance since 2013.

Despite the absence of former world number one Naomi Osaka, who was unable to travel to Spain due to injury, Japan rallied after Nao Hibino lost the first singles match of the day 6-2, 6-4 to Ana Bogdan.

Ena Shibahara, stepping in for Osaka, delivered a crucial victory against Jaqueline Cristian, winning 6-4, 7-6(2) to equalize the tie.

In the crucial doubles match, Shuko Aoyama and Eri Hozumi secured Japan's advancement to the quarter-finals with a 6-1, 7-5 triumph over Elena Gabriela Ruse and Monica Niculescu.

Japan is set to compete against last year's finalists, Italy, in the quarter-finals on Saturday.

"We feel fantastic," stated Japan's captain Ai Sugiyama during a press conference.

"Reaching the Finals was one of our objectives, and all players and staff have contributed significantly to this achievement."

"During my playing days, I found it challenging to participate in team events due to the immense pressure I placed on myself. However, the current players are managing the pressure effectively and performing exceptionally well. Despite losing the first match, we demonstrated great resilience."

The first round of the BJK Cup will proceed on Friday, featuring the host nation Spain against Iga Swiatek's Poland, followed by a match between Germany and Great Britain.

SportsLigue