Italy has advanced to the semi-finals of the Davis Cup Finals after defeating Austria, thanks to strong performances from Matteo Berrettini and Flavio Cobolli, in front of an enthusiastic home crowd in Bologna. This victory marks Italy’s fourth consecutive presence in the semi-finals, underscoring their status as two-time defending champions.
In the opening match, Berrettini, a former world No. 6, secured Italy’s lead with a straight sets victory over Jurij Rodionov, finishing 6-3, 7-6(4). Although the second set experienced a delay due to lighting issues, Berrettini showcased his resilience by overcoming a 2-5 deficit and saving three set points while serving at 4-5. He turned the match around and dominated the tie-break to clinch the win.
Following Berrettini, Cobolli made a significant impact by defeating Filip Misolic with an emphatic score of 6-1, 6-3, in only his third Davis Cup appearance. His triumph sent the local fans into a frenzy and solidified Italy’s lead in the tie. The victory marks Italy’s extended winning streak to 12 ties, intensifying anticipation for their semi-final match against Belgium on Friday.
As Italy aims for a fourth Davis Cup title, Berrettini’s contribution remains crucial. Last year, he delivered an impeccable performance, going undefeated with a record of 6-0, which included five singles wins and one doubles victory, playing a vital role in Italy’s championship journey. The team’s momentum and home advantage could be key factors as they look to continue their successful run in the tournament.