Zidansek and Juvan help Slovenia Netherlands onto the podium

Slovenia defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in a battle of heavyweights on the opening day of the Billie Jean King Cup play-offs in Group ‘G’ here on Friday.

Slovenian Tamara Zidansek (world no. 162) and Kaja Juvan (98) raised the bar by beating higher-ranked opponents in Arantxa Rus (139) and Suzan Lamens (87) respectively.

The tone was set by 2021 French Open semi-finalist Zidansek, who made short work of the left-handed Russian. Zidansek was in her element in the first set and attacked short balls with venom.

The 34-year-old Russian came alive in the second set, going for winners and hitting deep, flat groundstrokes. A thrilling tie-break beckoned, ending with the consistent Zidansek taking the honours.

The courts at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium bounced heavily, with the ball often rising above the head. Tamara, adept at hitting an overhead forehand, adapted to the conditions with ease. Tamara also did well to run to the net as her approach shot reached the corners, allowing her to seal points with clean volleys.

Juvan and Lamens, the two best players in the group, went head-to-head in a quality performance. Lamens hit powerful forehands at will, while the lean, tall Juvan stretched every nerve to pull back select winners.

Juvan overcame a 2-5 deficit and won the first set 7-6. Lamens then forced a decider and held serve at crucial moments to close out the second set.

The 24-year-old Juvan quickly switched gears and hit backhand winners down the line as Lamens lobbed in a weak second serve. The constant pressure took its toll on Lamens, who finished second after a battle lasting two hours and 34 minutes.

Host country India will take on big favorite Slovenia on Saturday. If Slovenia beats India, the former will emerge as the early winners in this three-team group.

The result:Slovenia vs Netherlands 2-1 (Sidanese Tamara bt Rast 6-1, 7-6(6) Campaths bt bt Susan Lamens 7-6(7), 4-6, 6-3;