US falls to Russia in Billie Jean King Cup semifinals

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@BJKCup

Russia is through to the Billie Jean King Cup final after downing the United States 2-1 on Friday.

Russia started strong, with Liudmila Samsonova defeating American star Sloane Stephens 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 in a come-from-behind victory. Then, Danielle Collins responded for the United States, besting 2021 Roland Garros finalist Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-7(9), 7-6(2), 6-2 in a hard-fought match.

Friday’s doubles contest acted as the decider for the Russians, with Samsonova and Veronika Kudermetova cruising past Shelby Rogers and CoCo Vandeweghe in straight sets.

Russia’s victory advances the country to their first Billie Jean King Cup championship since 2015 after winning the tournament in 2008.

Switzerland will meet Russia in the title matchup after beating Australia 2-0.