Slovenia made a significant mark at the Billie Jean King Cup by securing a spot in the 2026 Qualifiers after triumphing over India in a closely contested tie held in Bengaluru. This victory came after winning both of their ties over two days, while other groups in the tournament remained uncertain as the final match day approached.
The pivotal clash of this Group G event saw Slovenia’s Tamara Zidansek, ranked 22nd in the world, facing off against India’s 23-year-old Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, who was considerably lower in the WTA rankings at 381. In an engaging encounter featuring dramatic shifts, Zidansek ultimately emerged victorious, but not without a fight from the Indian player. The match lasted 2 hours and 19 minutes, ending in a scoreline of 6-3, 4-6, 6-1.
Post-match, Bhamidipaty expressed her determination and commitment, stating, “I just wanted to give my 100 percent and play my best tennis. I think I was able to do that. Definitely, a little disappointed that I couldn’t get the win for my team.” Despite the loss, Bhamidipaty’s performance demonstrated her growth and ability to compete at a higher level.
The opening set saw Bhamidipaty struggling initially to find her footing, yielding a quick lead for Zidansek at 4-1. However, she managed to adapt, securing her first games but ultimately losing the set in 51 minutes. The second set marked a pivotal turnaround as Bhamidipaty surged ahead to a commanding 5-1 lead, showcasing her powerful serve, which included six aces. Zidansek attempted to rally, but Bhamidipaty maintained her composure to take the second set and force a deciding third.
In the final set, fatigue appeared to set in for Bhamidipaty, allowing Zidansek to dominate, racing to a 5-1 advantage before sealing the match.
Slovenia’s success continued with Kaja Juvan, ranked 98, who dispatched India’s Sahaja Yamalapalli 6-4, 6-2 to clinch the tie for Slovenia, ensuring their place in the next round. In a dead rubber doubles match, the Indian duo of Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare managed to clinch a victory against Slovenia’s pair of Nika Radisic and Dalila Jakupovic, finishing with a score of 1-6, 6-3, [10-7].
As Slovenia celebrates its advancement, India and the Netherlands will vie for their positions in their final matches. In other groups, teams like Brazil, Canada, Romania, and Switzerland also put on impressive performances, continuing the nail-biting nature of the Billie Jean King Cup Play-offs.
With the final day of matches set to determine the last advances to the qualifiers, anticipation mounts for thrilling encounters ahead.
