Italy whitewash USA in Fed Cup final

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 11:49

Italy’s Fed Cup team ended their nine-match losing streak against the US to clinch their second title in three years, crushing the visitors and ten-time champions 4-0 in Reggio Calabria.

Already 2-0 up after the first day’s play, Italy took an unassailable 3-0 lead when Flavia Pennetta beat Melanie Oudin 7-5 6-2 on Sunday, clinching the title.

The fourth singles tie between Francesca Schiavone and Alexa Glatch was scrapped, leaving just the doubles in which Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci won 4-6 6-4 11-9 against Vania King and Liezel Huber.

The Americans have won the trophy a record 10 times, but have not triumphed during the last nine years and failed to even win a set in three singles matches this year. But despite the experience of losing, Oudin said she was glad to have been involved.

“For me, this is what I wanted. I wanted to come here. I wanted to play for my country,” she said. “I don’t know, other people choose different things. Some people, I guess, didn’t want to play as badly as I did.

“But I think that the team that we had here really wanted to be here. I think that was what should have happened.”

The victory was the perfect end to a great year for Pennetta, who reached the world’s top ten earlier this year before ending the year at No.11.

“We’re the world champions, it’s simple,” said Pennetta. “We’ve played against some great teams this year.”

Fed Cup final 2009 – results

Italy vs USA

Flavia Pennetta beat Alexa Glatch 6-3 6-1
Francesca Schiavone beat Melanie Oudin 7-6 6-2

Sunday results
Flavia Pennetta beat Melanie Oudin 7-5 6-2
Francesca Schiavone v Alexa Glatch – not played
Sara Errani & Roberta Vinci beat Liezel Huber & Vania King 4-6 6-3 11-9

Now get the WORLD’S BEST TENNIS MAGAZINE here