Great Britain have qualified for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals with a 3-1 victory over France after singles wins from Emma Raducanu and Katie Boulter
Briton seals 3-1 win with 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 victory over Diane ParryAs they faced off against a quality France team on unfamiliar soil, each member of Great Britain’s team made no secret of their underdog status and the significant challenge ahead to qualify for the Billie Jean King Cup. Their inferiority on paper was reinforced early on as they found themselves close to a 2-0 deficit they may have struggled to overturn.
It turned out to be a disastrous move. Between Burel’s inexperience in big matches and Boulter’s rustiness on clay, the first set made for a tight, scrappy affair with ample errors and uncertainty. “She said a few nice words, which means a lot coming from someone like her. She’s such a star and I have a lot of respect for what she’s done in the sport and the way that she plays and how relentless she is. I have a lot to learn from her.”
From the very first game, a breathless 10 minute mini-battle, they were determined to dictate play. As the Briton refused to move from on the baseline, taking the ball early and striking her forehand brilliantly, Parry rocked back and unloaded on heavy topspin forehands, forcing angles and furiously closing down the net.Two strong athletes, they constantly found ways to flip defence to attack.
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