A year after they suffered heartache to the hands of Canada, Italy won the Billie Jean Cup in Malaga.

Wimbledon finalist Jasmine Paolini led the Italians to a 2-0 victory over Slovakia. Paolini produced an inspired display against Rebecca Sramkova, winning the second singles rubber 6-2 6-1.

Paolini has enjoyed a successful breakout year in 2024 which included an Olympic Gold medal in the woman’s doubles.

Italian tennis has emerged as a dominance force in the sport, which includes the current men’s world No.1 Jannik Sinner.