Report | United Cup: Three of the four semifinal spots have been decided, awaiting the winner between the host and Poland

On January 8th, Beijing time, the United Cup quarterfinals continued with exciting contests. In the Sydney area, Belgium triumphed over the favored Czech team 2-1.

In the opening match, Bergs, who was previously defeated by Zhang Zhizhen in the group stage, overcame Menšík 6-2/7-6 (4) to secure the first point for Belgium.

In the subsequent women’s singles match, Krejčíková displayed excellent forehand performance to take the first set 7-5. In the second set, Mertens improved her serve and broke twice to level at 6-1. In the decisive set, Mertens maintained consistent form and achieved a crucial break at the end, completing a 5-7/6-1/7-5 comeback over Krejčíková, helping Belgium clinch a semifinal berth. They will face Switzerland, led by Bencic and Wawrinka, who defeated Argentina in Perth. With three semifinal spots confirmed, the final spot will be decided tomorrow afternoon in Sydney, where the host Australia will face a tough challenge from Poland, with the match between Deminal and Hurkacz highly anticipated.

Mertens Photo: Visual China

Elsewhere, Chinese player Wang Xiyu, after treatment and adjustment during the winter break, still did not reach the competition level and has announced her withdrawal from the 2026 Australian Open qualifiers to continue her recovery.

Wang Xiyu Photo: Visual China

(Text and editing: Sunny)