Led by the strong Jannik Sinner, Italy reached the semi-finals of the Davis Cup in Malaga, Spain.
In the round of the last eight, the Italian selection beat the Netherlands 2-1 on Thursday (November 23rd, 2023). In the decisive doubles, Sinner, who was unstoppable on his own serve, defeated the Dutch duo Tallon Griekspoor/Wesley Koolhof alongside Lorenzo Sonego in two hard-fought sets 6:3, 6:4.
Van de Zandschulp’s crime thriller victory was ultimately in vain
The world number four had previously won his singles against Griekspoor 7:6 (7:3), 6:1. Matteo Arnaldi lost to Botic van de Zandschulp 7:6 (8:6), 3:6, 6:7 (7:9).
In the evening, the Serbs around Grand Slam record champion Novak Djokovic will play the last semi-finalist against Great Britain, the winner will face Italy. The final takes place on Sunday (4 p.m.).
Australia defeats the Czech Republic
The previous evening, Australia had defeated the Czechs and also reached the semi-finals. After a lost singles and a comeback by Alex De Minaur, the doubles decided the game in favor of the Australians, who ultimately won 2-1.
In the round of the last four on Friday awaits Finland, who surprisingly beat defending champions Canada 2-1 on Tuesday evening and reached a Davis Cup semi-final for the first time.
Machac defeats Thompson at the start
Tomas Machac opened the duel between the Czech Republic and Australia with a 6:4, 7:5 against Jordan Thompson. Jiri Lehecka then had De Minaur, number twelve in the world, on the verge of defeat, but lost 6:4, 6:7 (2:7), 5:7.
In the doubles, Lehecka, alongside Adam Pavlasek, lost to the Australians Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell 4:6, 5:7.