Safina and Safin lead Russia past italy

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:11

Dinara Safina and older brother Marat Safin recorded singles victories as Russia topped Italy in a Group B match-up at the mixed-team event.

Safina, who enjoyed the best season of her career with four singles victories in 2008, defeated Flavia Pennetta 7-5 6-3 in a 93-minute match. The 22-year-old Safina won the last six games of the second set.

Four years older than his sister, Safin followed with an equally hard-fought 7-6 (7/5) 6-4 triumph over Simone Bolelli. The former world number one improved to 7-12 at the Hopman Cup.

It is the first time the Russian duo have teamed up for a tournament.

Next they will take on Su-Wei Hsieh and Yen-Hsun Lu of Chinese Taipei on Wednesday.

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By Tim Farthing

About the Author / Tim Farthing

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.