Great Britain vs Slovakia LIVE!
Great Britain have fallen short in their bid to reach Billie Jean King Cup for the first time since 1981, as Slovakia came from behind to beat them and set up a final clash against Italy.
Emma Raducanu gave Britain an early lead with victory over Viktoria Hruncakova in the first singles match, making it three straight-sets wins in Malaga and giving her team the best possible start. Katie Boulter then looked to be on course to do likewise, winning the first set, but Rebecca Sramkova battled back to take victory and ensure a deciding doubles rubber was required.
Heather Watson and Olivia Nicholls took on Hruncakova and Tereza Mihalikova and never looked like getting the job done for Great Britain, with the Slovakia pair winning 6-2 6-2 in comfortable fashion, bringing an end to the British bid for a first ever Billie Jean King Cup title. Catch up on Great Britain vs Slovakia with our live blog below!
Great Britain vs Slovakia latest news
- Watson and Nicholls falls to defeat in doubles decider
- Boulter beaten! Slovakia level up tie
- Straight sets! Raducanu gives Britain lead
GAME, SET AND MATCH!
17:19 , Matt VerriWatson/Nicholls 2-6 2-6 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
One saved, Nicholls with a nice drop volley. 40-30.
But it’s second time lucky for Slovakia... they are through to the final!
Great Britain’s campaign is over.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 2-5* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
17:17 , Matt VerriNet cod flicks the ball over Watson’s racket. Nothing she could do.
Hruncakova then swats away the overhead, just no errors from the Slovakia pair at the moment. Marching towards the finish line. 30-15.
Two match points coming up, as Watson slaps a backhand into the net.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 2-5* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
17:13 , Matt VerriThe end could be near... 0-30 on the Nicholls serve.
And it’s now two break points. Too good from Hruncakova, brute force followed by a delicate lob.
Mihalikova’s overhead beats Watson and there is the double break for Slovakia. A game away from victory.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 *2-4 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
17:09 , Matt VerriBrilliant volley from Nicholls, dropped right at her feet but she dug it out and sliced it into the open court.
Watson just as impressive a point later - British pair fight back to 30-30 in this game.
Hruncakova juuuuust catches the line with the backhand and Mihalikova puts away the overhead. 40-30 - about an inch in that.
Nicholls then gets the backhand wrong, well wide and it’s a hold.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 2-3* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
17:03 , Matt VerriWatson’s serve under real pressure here. Has to hold.
Good couple of points to start and Nicholls then drops the volley over the net, Mihalikova gives up on that early. 40-0.
Second-serve return doesn’t clear the net - hold to love. Britain still in this.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 *1-3 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
17:01 , Matt VerriHuge roar from Watson, puts away the backhand overhead. Wasn’t easy at all.
Net cord then helps the Brits out - 15-30. Feels like they have to make something of this opening.
Break points! Wild drive volley from Mihalikova, miles long.
One goes, Watson with her head in her hands as she nets the volley. 30-40. Followed with an ace - 40-40. Still a chance for Great Britain, though.
Can’t take it. Nicholls misfires with the forehand and that’s a massive hold for Slovakia.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 1-2* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:55 , Matt VerriWarning lines are flashing... 0-30 on the Nicholls serve. Return from Hruncakova flies past Watson.
It’s three break points for Slovakia now. Nicholls again can’t put the volley away at the net, had a lot of space.
Just the one needed, as Nicholls can’t get the overhead from Mihalikova back in play.
Early break in the set for Slovakia.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 *1-1 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:52 , Matt VerriHruncakova can only flick the ball up, Nicholls should probably put it away at the net... wide. British pair can’t really afford many more mistakes like that.
Hruncakova then hammers a forehand straight at Watson, who can’t get it back.
Routine hold.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 1-0* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:48 , Matt VerriWatson to serve at the start of this set.
Good start for the British pair, but Mihalikova then lands a return right on the line. Silences the British squad courtside.
Mihalikova goes for it again - wide this time. Not far away at all. 40-30.
British pair taken to deuce, though. Looping forehand from Watson and Mihalikova has plenty of time with the volley.
Hruncakova’s return clips the top of the net and lands out. British hold.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:43 , Matt VerriHruncakova hesitates and Nicholls is there with the winner - Slovakians not looking quite so confident now.
But Mihalikova is serving Slovakia out of trouble, big first serve out wide and it’s 40-30. Set point.
Pinball at the net, Nicholls shows good hands to eventually put the volley away. Deuce.
But there is the set for Slovakia, Mihalikova’s volley is too good.
Watson/Nicholls 2-5* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:36 , Matt VerriMore like it from Nicholls, lovely touch at the net to flick it over. Watson backs it up next point, confident volley.
Not necessarily seeing it on the scoreboard, but signs that the British duo are starting to find some form.
They keep themselves in this set, more good work from Nicholas at the net.
Watson/Nicholls *1-5 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:33 , Matt VerriBit of an opening here for the British pair, as Hruncakova chucks in a double fault.
Huge point at 30-30, Nicholls moves across at the net and has the chance to put away the volley - nets it. Feels like a big moment.
Nicholls then goes for too much on the return, pulled wide. Slovakia hold.
Watson/Nicholls 1-4* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:27 , Matt VerriCan GB got on the board at the fifth time of asking?
Better start, Watson with a cheap point behind the first serve... but Hruncakova responds with a huge return winner. 30-30.
Britain get on the board, though. Watson’s serve comes good and they just about stay in this set.
Watson/Nicholls *0-4 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:22 , Alex YoungThis is very easy for Slovakia, again they race into a 40-love lead.
Watson claws back a point with some smart movement to the net, but the next point goes the way of Slovakia and it’s 4-0.
Watson/Nicholls 0-3* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:17 , Alex YoungIt’s been fairly routine for Slovakia so far and they fly into a 0-40 lead as three times Nicholls is out of position at the net.
Three break points, then. GB rescue the first, Slovakia send the second long.. but take the third.
Watson/Nicholls *0-2 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:13 , Alex YoungA volley at the net from Watson and then a brilliant forearm across the court gets GB up and running in the second game.
Slovakia hit back with two smart net approaches and then see out the game as Watson sends a return wide.
Watson/Nicholls 0-1* Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:09 , Alex YoungWatson kicks us off with a huge serve down the middle but Slovakia are more than a match as Hruncakova lofts a stunning lob onto the baseline for the opening point against serve.
Traded points into the net before a smart volley from Nicholls leaves it us as 30-30, but a mistake from Watson on her backhand gives Slovakia a break point - which they don’t take, but do with the second.
Here come Mihalikova and Hruncakova.
Here come the players, Watson and Nicholls out first.
Almost time
15:54 , Alex YoungWe have lights, we have camera and we (almost) have action in Malaga ahead of this doubles decider between Great Britain and Slovakia.
Watson/Nicholls vs Hruncakova/Mihalikova for place in final
15:47 , George FloodSo it all comes down to a winner-takes-all doubles decider as Italy await in tomorrow’s final.
The British pair of Heather Watson and Olivia Nicholls are needed for the first time this week as they prepare to take on doubles specialist Tereza Mihalikova and Viktoria Hruncakova, the latter of whom returns for her second match of the day after being brushed aside by Emma Raducanu earlier on.
We will be back underway very shortly...
GAME, SET AND MATCH!
15:26 , Matt VerriBoulter 6-2 4-6 4-6 Sramkova
Boulter goes for the backhand down the line... misses!
Slovakia level up the tie.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 *4-5 Sramkova
15:24 , Matt VerriGreat start, ace down the T from Boulter. Sramkova boots the ball away in frustration.
But the ball is then dropped right at Boulter’s feet and she can’t adjust in time. 15-15.
Open court for Boulter on the forehand flank... nets it! 15-30, Sramkova two points away from victory.
Double fault from Boulter - what a time for that! Two match points.
First of them saved, confident overhead at the net. One to go...
Boulter 6-2 4-6 *4-5 Sramkova
15:20 , Matt VerriBrilliant point! Boulter wins it, forehand crosscourt is too good and the British squad on that side of the court jump up.
Boulter charging around the court again next point, this time she’s left exhausted and can only flick the ball in the net. 15-15.
These second serves are getting safer and safer, the returns bigger and bigger. Boulter throws everything at that... winner. 30-30.
Long rally once more, this time Boulter sends the backhand into the net.
Ace from Sramkova... hold! Boulter will serve to stay in the match.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 4-4* Sramkova
15:15 , Matt VerriBoulter could really do with a comfortable hold here. If she’s broken, Sramkova will serve for the match.
Double fault from Boulter, who then throws in a very safe second serve... netted by Sramkova. Boulter returns the favour with a poor backhand of her own. 30-30.
The first serve is nowhere to be seen for Boulter... having to grind this out behind the second.
And she does! Gets into a long exchange from the baseline and Sramkova blinks first.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 *3-4 Sramkova
15:10 , Matt VerriSramkova continues to look rock solid when Boulter lobs the ball up. Swinging volley put away.
And it’s backed up by a flat forehand winner... Boulter throws her head up in frustration. Just about cleared the net. 40-15.
Poor backhand from Boulter and Sramkova moves back in front.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 3-3* Sramkova
15:06 , Matt VerriSramkova throws her racket up in frustration as she nets the backhand. 30-0, Boulter suddenly seems to have the momentum with her.
Forehand wide from Sramkova, who is looking a bit ragged. 40-15.
I take that back. She absolutely hammers an overhead at the net, Boulter doesn’t move.
There’s the hold, superb forehand winner from Boulter... she was completely off balance. 3-3 in the third set.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 *2-3 Sramkova
15:00 , Matt VerriBut Boulter is pushing to hit straight back. Fist pump from the Brit at 0-30... chance to her to respond immediately.
And she has three break points now, forehand winner put away.
First one goes, Boulter up to the net but flicks the ball long. 15-40. Sramkova with another flat backhand down the line, there goes the second break point. 30-40... one left for Boulter.
BREAKS! Third time lucky and it’s back on serve in the decider.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 1-3* Sramkova
14:55 , Matt VerriBig, big problems for Boulter. She’s 0-40 down and has three break points to save.
Sramkova breaks! Stunning backhand winner down the line, she’s taken a big step towards levelling this tie up.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 *1-2 Sramkova
14:51 , Matt VerriBoulter approaches the net, but can only watch as the backhand pass is drilled crosscourt.
She then tries to lob Sramkova, who has all the time in the way to put the overhead away. 40-0.
Boulter nets the return, a swift hold to love.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 1-1* Sramkova
14:49 , Matt VerriLong, long rally. Boulter gets fed up of that and swats a forehand... long. Been so up and down with that shot.
Sramkova responds with an unforced error of her own, British squad on their feet trying to rally Boulter. Raducanu among them now.
Volley at the net is then good enough from Boulter, up and running in this deciding set.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 *0-1 Sramkova
14:45 , Matt VerriSramkova to serve at the start of this third set.
If Great Britain win it, they will be through to the final. If Slovakia win it, we’ll go to a deciding doubles rubber.
Boulter looking for a quick start, gets to 30-30 in this opening game.
But Sramkova seals the hold, forehand winner put away.
Boulter 6-2 4-6 Sramkova
14:39 , Matt VerriThe pair exchange unforced errors to start the game. Neither of them with any interest in playing it safe as the pressure builds.
That’s a big, big mistake. Boulter in control of the point, has a couple of opportunities to win it at the net but the nets the volley. 15-30.
Two set points! Boulter with a tame backhand halfway up the net.
Great first serve, one down. But Sramkova takes the second!
We’re going to a decider...
Boulter 6-2 *4-5 Sramkova
14:33 , Matt VerriThree games in a row for Boulter. If she makes it four, she will be serving for the match.
Aggressive approach continuing, as ever. Can’t make the backhand down the line, 30-0.
Return from Boulter lands long, and Sramkova is on the verge of a much-needed hold.
Job done for Sramkova, drop shot is good enough. Hold to love, Boulter will serve to stay in the set.
Boulter 6-2 4-4* Sramkova
14:30 , Matt VerriAnother twist? Poor forehand from Boulter it’s 15-30... pressure right back on her shoulders.
Sramkova floats a backhand deep, Boulter considers the swinging volley, lets it go in the end... just out. Good decision. 30-30.
A couple of wild swings from Sramkova later and it’s a hold. Level in the second set!
Boulter 6-2 *3-4 Sramkova
14:25 , Matt VerriBoulter on the charge... 0-30! Errors starting to flow from Sramkova, all of a sudden.
And another mistake, forehand has disappeared. Three break points for Boulter!
Needs only one! Massive return off the second serve and we are back on serve in Malaga.
Boulter 6-2 2-4* Sramkova
14:22 , Matt VerriFeels like a must-hold for Boulter, this game.
Confident start, big ace out wide . Sramkova can only find the net with a backhand crosscourt, 40-15. Feels like a while since Boulter has had a comfortable game on serve.
That’s what it is, as the return flies long and Boulter marches over to her towel. Now to get the break back...
Boulter 6-2 *1-4 Sramkova
14:17 , Matt VerriConstant momentum swings at the moment.
Boulter with the drop shot, Sramkova gets there but can’t flick it back in play. 15-30 and an opening for Boulter.
Second serve to attack... dumped into the net. That was a real chance, Boulter can’t take it. 30-30.
Gruelling rally, Sramkova forced further and further back and eventually she’s worn down. Deuce.
Backhand into the net from Boulter and that’s a huge hold for Sramkova.
Boulter 6-2 1-3* Sramkova
14:12 , Matt VerriBoulter continues to go for everything. Forehand down the line doesn’t quite have the whip around the post, lands out. 15-30.
Clean hitting next point, though, as Boulter forces the mistake. Another big, big roar to the bench.
Consistency is the problem... Boulter sends the forehand long and it’s break point for Sramkova.
And Boulter can’t save it! Double fault gifts the break back.
Boulter 6-2 *1-2 Sramkova
14:06Back-to-back aces for Sramkova. Momentum is firmly with her.
Three in a row! Boulter not getting a sniff in this game, as Sramkova looks to consolidate the break.
Decides to mix things up, throws in a double fault next point. And that proves costly, as Boulter fires a forehand winner down the line. Deuce.
Break point - Sramkova just goes long from the back of the court.
Boulter breaks back! Puts away the volley at the net and Sramkova, despite serving three aces on the bounce, has found a way to lose the game.
Boulter 6-2 0-2* Sramkova
14:01 , Matt VerriDouble fault from Boulter puts her under a bit of pressure. Don’t know what was said at the changeover but it hasn’t gone particularly well since...
She then shanks a backhand into the stands, 30-30. Make that 30-40 and break point, Boulter puts far too much on the forehand.
More like it, big first serve gets Boulter back to deuce.
But another break point coming up - Boulter forehand has been wild in these couple of games.
Taken! Sramokva holds her nerve with the backhand at the net.
Boulter 6-2 *0-1 Sramkova
13:55 , Matt VerriBoulter continues to go big off the forehand wing, hasn’t quite found the range early in this set. Couple of unforced errors.
Loose game from the Brit, ended with a return low into the net. Hold to love for Sramkova.
Boulter 6-2 Sramkova
13:51 , Matt VerriAnother chance for Boulter, gets the better of this baseline exchange and it’s set point again.
Taken! Ace down the T and Boulter wins the first set.
That’s now 11 sets played by Great Britain in Malaga and 11 won.
Boulter *5-2 Sramkova
13:49 , Matt VerriBoulter firmly on top, dominating from the baseline. Steps in and whips a forehand past Sramkova, 30-0.
Chance for Sramkova to attack a very weak second serve from Boulter, but the return is even worse. Two set points!
One comes and goes, as Boulter nets a backhand. Went for the winner down the line over the highest point of the net, couldn’t make it.
And Boulter then slaps the forehand low into the net next point, after a long rally. Deuce.
Boulter *5-2 Sramkova
13:43 , Matt VerriBoulter jumps all over the second serve, running around it and hammering a forehand crosscourt. Sramkova gets nowhere near it.
Forehand from Sramkova then lands comfortably long, two break points for Boulter!
First serve saves one of them, but another unforced error follows and it’s a double break for Boulter!
She will serve for the set.
Boulter 4-2* Sramkova
13:41 , Matt VerriRattling through these service games now.
Boulter finding her rhythm on serve, a couple of cheap points behind it in this game.
Return sails long from Sramkova and Boulter keeps her nose in front.
Boulter *3-2 Sramkova
13:35 , Matt VerriBoth players have settled down on serve a bit now.
Ace down the T from Sramkova, Boulter gives up on that one pretty early.
And the Briton then nets the return next point as she is cramped up by the serve, routine hold.
Boulter 3-1* Sramkova
13:32 , Matt VerriWill we ever get a hold of serve?
Sramkova puts away the forehand at the net and it’s 15-30 on the Boulter serve.
Sramkova can’t make the pass, but Boulter then finds the net again and it’s yet another break point.
Saved this time, Sramkova off balance as she sends the forehand long. Deuce.
Forehand winner from Boulter, chance for her to earn the first hold of the match.
And she does! Sramkova with the unforced error and the break is consolidated.
Boulter *2-1 Sramkova
13:24 , Matt VerriErrors flying from both ends of the court.
Sramkova’s forehand is wild, Boulter with two break points. Frantic start to this match.
And it’s another break! Brilliant forehand down the line from Boulter.
Boulter 1-1* Sramkova
13:21 , Matt VerriBut Boulter isn’t looking too secure on serve herself.
A couple of loose backhands and Sramkova has two break points to get it straight back on serve.
And she does at the first time of asking, as Boulter’s slice floats wide.
Boulter *1-0 Sramkova
13:17 , Matt VerriSramkova to serve first and she’s immediately under huge pressure... three break points Boulter!
Two of them saved but Boulter is skipping away in celebration, as Sramkova sends the backhand long.
An early break.
Katie Boulter vs Rebecca Sramkova
13:16We are underway in the second singles clash of this semi-final tie!
Can Katie Boulter seal Great Britain’s place in tomorrow’s showpiece?
Time to find out...
Katie Boulter vs Rebecca Sramkova up next
13:10 , George FloodSo now it’s over to Katie Boulter to try and secure Great Britain’s place in tomorrow’s Billie Jean King Cup final against Italy in Malaga, without the need for a tense doubles decider later on.
The current British No1 is in action against Rebecca Sramkova, currently enjoying a career-high ranking of world No43 but yet to advance beyond the first round of a Grand Slam.
Boulter, like Raducanu, has been rock solid for GB in the competition so far, defeating both Laura Siegemund and then Emma’s former US Open final opponent Leylah Fernandez to help continue this journey into the semis.
Winning moment!
12:57 , Matt VerriHuge relief for Raducanu and Great Britain!
"What a performance & what a win!"
— LTA (@the_LTA) November 19, 2024
Another special @EmmaRaducanu moment to move us a step away from the @BJKCup final!
BackTheBrits 🇬🇧 | #BJKCup pic.twitter.com/oSuwnIt3vj
GAME, SET AND MATCH!
12:52Raducanu 6-4 6-4 Hruncakova
Right then, take two for Raducanu.
Not a great start, forehand dumped into the net. Slovakian team are the ones on their feet now.
But then a huge roar from Raducanu, as he makes the forehand winner crosscourt. 15-15.
Hruncakova helping Raducanu out big time... wild forehand and it’s two match points!
Takes the first of then, first serve swung out wide. Great Britain take a 1-0 lead!
Raducanu 6-4 *5-4 Hruncakova
12:48It’s a carbon copy of the first set at the moment. Hruncakova suddenly on top, Raducanu the one making the errors.
30-0 and the pressure could very soon be right back on Raducanu.
And it is. First serve down the T, Raducanu can’t get it back. She will now serve for the match... again.
Raducanu 6-4 5-3* Hruncakova
12:45 , Matt VerriIt’s never easy...
Hruncakova puts away the overhead and it’s 0-30. Not done yet.
Three break points! Backhand winner from Hruncakova, catches the line.
First two of them saved, ace out wide and Raducanu has got it back to 40-30.
Broken! Hruncakova takes the third break point, Raducanu’s defences eventually worn down by the backhand.
Raducanu 6-4 *5-2 Hruncakova
12:39 , Matt VerriRaducanu in a hurry now. Clean winner crosscourt, 0-30 up and she is within touching distance of victory.
Hruncakova chucks in a double fault, two break points for Raducanu. These feel like near enough match points.
First of them saved with an ace, but the forehand from Hruncakova is long!
A double break and Raducanu will serve for the match.
Raducanu 6-4 4-2* Hruncakova
12:35 , Matt VerriFirst serve cramps Hruncakova, can’t make the return.
And there’s the hold! Hruncakova sends the backhand wide and Raducanu consolidates the break.
Two games away...
Raducanu 6-4 *3-2 Hruncakova
12:34 , Matt VerriDouble fault to kick things off. Not quite what Raducanu was looking for. That is, though. Follows it with an ace out wide, 15-15.
It’s turning into another scrap of a game. Backhand netted from Raducanu, 30-30. This is a massive game in the match.
Hruncakova right in the point, but she nets the backhand on the run. 40-30, plenty of noise from the British fans.
Another double fault! Second serve has been a problem for both this afternoon. Deuce.
Shot! Forehand down the line juuuust about drops in for Raducanu, had very little margin for error.
Back to deuce, though. Hruncakova hanging in there.
Raducanu 6-4 *3-2 Hruncakova
12:26 , Matt VerriRoutine backhand from Hruncakova flies long... 0-30 and now it’s Raducanu with the chance.
Can’t make the return next point, but a superb slice forces the mistake from Hruncakova and that’s two break points! Kept that so low.
Only needs one! Backhand long again from Hruncakova and all of a sudden Raducanu is three games away from victory.
Raducanu 6-4 2-2* Hruncakova
12:23 , Matt VerriFist pump from Hruncakova, as she works Raducanu around the court and forces the error. 15-30 and a first chance for her on the Raducanu serve in this set.
Hruncakova big with the forehand down the net, nets it. 30-30.
Back-to-back aces from Raducanu, perfect time for that. Big hold.
Raducanu 6-4 *1-2 Hruncakova
12:18 , Matt VerriHruncakova tries to delicately drop it over the net... makes a mess of it again. Furious with herself at that.
Gets 40-15 to briefly lift her spirits, but Raducanu then slaps a flat forehand winner down the line. Brilliant shot.
Chance for Raducanu to make the pass, but it’s sent into the net and Hruncakova edges back in front.
Raducanu 6-4 1-1* Hruncakova
12:15 , Matt VerriRaducanu very vocal with herself between points, trying to get things going again.
It’s working, serves herself into a 40-0 lead in barely a minute.
Hruncakova sends the backhand wide and it’s a hold to love.
Raducanu 6-4 *0-1 Hruncakova
12:12 , Matt VerriHruncakova definitely picked up towards the end of that set, it’s turned into a real test for Raducanu.
Saying that, it’s a double fault in the opening game of this set from Hruncakova. Still a few issues on second serve.
Follows it with an ace... and another one. Confident hold.
SET! Raducanu 6-4 Hruncakova
12:07 , Matt VerriShanked forehand from Hruncakova, and she then can’t get the first serve out wide from Raducanu back. 30-0.
Backhand pulled wide, Raducanu 40-0 up and that’s three set points. Routine game is just what she needed.
First of them saved, as Hruncakova puts away the forehand winner.
That’s the set! Took 50 minutes in the end, but job done for Raducanu.
Raducanu *5-4 Hruncakova
12:02 , Matt VerriThe momentum has completely flipped. Hruncakova fires down another ace, 30-0 and Raducanu is suddenly the one under pressure.
But that’s a horror show from Hruncakova! Raducanu runs down the drop shot, flicks it back and she’s almost in the stands when Hruncakova then sends it straight into the net. The entire court was empty.
40-30, as Raducanu’s return flicks the top of the net and drops in.
Hruncakova gets the hold, as the return flies long this time. Raducanu will once again serve for the set.
Raducanu 5-3* Hruncakova
11:58 , Matt VerriSensational return from Hruncakova brings up another break point. Playing her best tennis of the match by a mile.
Double fault - Raducanu broken!
She’s still a break up, but that is a big confidence boost for Hruncakova.
Raducanu *5-2 Hruncakova
11:56 , Matt VerriNice touch at the net from Raducanu this time, waits for Hruncakova to make a move and then flicks it the other way.
Hruncakova starting to find some consistency, though. 30-30 and half a chance for her.
Tame return from Hruncakova, had to do more with that. Set point Raducanu.
She can’t take it, whipped forehand winner from Hruncakova and it’s deuce!
And now it’s a break point, net cord flicks the ball up and Hruncakova has time to get there and put the forehand away.
Saved! First serve to the rescue. Deuce.
Raducanu *5-2 Hruncakova
11:48 , Matt VerriHruncakova serving to stay in the set. This has got away from her in a hurry.
Timely ace helps her out, before Hruncakova then comes out on top after a great rally. Lovely backhand winner, might be her best shot of the match.
Double fault gets it back to 40-30, but it’s a much-needed hold after Raducanu can’t pull off a tough volley at the net.
Raducanu 5-1* Hruncakova
11:44 , Matt VerriTiring job being in the British squad right now. On their feet almost every point.
After a shaky start, the Raducanu serve is firing and bringing plenty of free points. Body serve isn’t returned, 30-0.
Backhand winner down the line, confidence is really flowing.
Another hold to love, ace out wide gets the job done.
Raducanu*4-1 Hruncakova
11:40 , Matt VerriTwo routine groundstrokes from Hruncakova sail long, she’s already under big pressure in this set. 0-30 and Raducanu is sensing a double break.
Wow, second serve barely makes it to the net, let alone clear it. Three break points.
One will do! Flat return from Raducanu, Hruncakova can’t react in time and the Briton is cruising.
Raducanu 3-1* Hruncakova
11:37 , Matt VerriRaducanu is on top when they exchange from the baseline, clean hitting. Forehand pass down the line is too good.
First serve then doesn’t come back, 40-0 and this looks like the first comfortable hold of the match.
Second serve ace to wrap things up. So far, so good for Raducanu.
Raducanu *2-1 Hruncakova
11:33 , Matt VerriHruncakova’s turn to struggle on second serve, double fault to start the game.
She goes very safe with it next time and Raducanu jumps all over it, too good with the forehand return. 15-30.
Second serve from Hruncakova is getting slower and slower... almost too slow for Raducanu. Slaps it into the net and Slovakia are on the board.
Raducanu 2-0* Hruncakova
11:29 , Matt VerriRaducanu thinks she’s sealed the hold with an ace, but that was just out.
And she has more work to do, return from Hruncakova catches the line and Raducanu can’t get it back. Played nearly ten minutes in this game.
Chance for Raducanu to put an end to it, after making the backhand pass down the line.
And she does! Hruncakova long with the forehand and it’s a battling hold for Great Britain.
Raducanu 1-0* Hruncakova
11:26 , Matt VerriNot a great start to this game, though, for Raducanu. Two forehands sent halfway up the net and it’s 0-30.
Double fault from the Briton, two break points for Hruncakova and it’s been a bit of a gift.
First of them saved, as Hruncakova goes for a big backhand return and gets it all wrong. 30-40. And Raducanu gets it to deuce, timely first serve gets her out of trouble.
Ace out wide, but Raducanu pegged back to deuce after slicing into the net.
Another double fault - real mixed bag from Raducanu on serve so far. Break point again.
Huge forehand winner, Raducanu takes it back to deuce once more. Settle in...
Raducanu *1-0 Hruncakova
11:18 , Matt VerriHruncakova nets a routine backhand and Raducanu then does enough with the crosscourt pass next point. 15-30 and an early chance to put some pressure on the serve.
Especially now - two break points, another unforced error from the Hruncakova backhand.
Only needs one! Great return from Raducanu and she breaks immediately.
Hruncakova is ranked about 200 places below Raducanu, she’s very much the underdog here.
It will be Hruncakova to serve first.
Bucket hats seem to be mandatory for all the British supporters in the stands. Someone has made a lot of money in Malaga.
Anthems done, handshakes done - we’re about ready to get this semi-final tie up and running.
Emma Raducanu vs Viktoria Hruncakova to kick things off.
Here we go...
11:04 , Matt VerriPlenty of British fans inside the arena in Malaga, as there has been throughout this event.
Both squads are out on court, Heather Watson looking particularly cheery and relaxed. We’ll see if that’s the case later this afternoon, should she be called upon.
Five-minute warning!
10:55 , Matt VerriEmma Raducanu due out on court in the next five minutes or so to take on Viktoria Hruncakova.
Here’s a reminder of what will follow later this afternoon...
🇬🇧 Your Lexus GB @BJKCup Team set to face Slovakia in the semi-final: @EmmaRaducanu vs Viktória Hrunčáková@katiecboulter vs Rebecca Šramková@OliviaNicholls & @HeatherWatson92 vs Viktória Hrunčáková & Tereza Mihalíková
— LTA (@the_LTA) November 19, 2024
Raducanu: I'm a dangerous player
10:47 , Matt VerriIt has been another frustrating season on the injury front for Emma Raducanu, who returned from two months out just in time to be fit for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.
However, the 22-year-old remains upbeat on her progress, insisting nobody wants to face her.
“I think I started the year off pretty well for the first half, you know, up to Wimbledon,” Raducanu said.
“Then I struggled a little bit more with my body I think physically. Wasn’t able to play the full calendar and stay on court as much as I would have liked.
“But my assessment is, you know, I think sometimes I need reminding, I’m top 60 in the world and I have played less than 15 events, which is pretty unheard of, in a way.
“I have to pat myself on the back for that. I know I’m a dangerous player. I know no one wants to pull my name in the draw. I take pride in that, and I’m looking forward to hopefully staying on court longer next year.”
The winning moment
10:36 , Matt VerriEight sets played in Malaga, eight sets won.
It has been a perfect run from Emma Raducanu and Katie Boulter so far, ensuring a doubles match has not yet been required.
Can they maintain that serene progress today?
“GOT IT DONE!”@katiecboulter with a huge win to see us into the @BJKCup semi-finals ❤️#BackTheBrits 🇬🇧 | #BJKCup pic.twitter.com/VYSc2rrYQp
— LTA (@the_LTA) November 17, 2024
Not long to wait...
10:27 , Matt VerriIt will be a quick turnaround for whoever comes through this tie.
The final will be played tomorrow, with the first singles match scheduled to start at 4pm GMT.
Italy, who have already booked their place in the final, have the advantage of an extra day of rest.
Matches confirmed
10:18 , Matt VerriThe schedule for this tie has just been confirmed.
As expected, Emma Raducanu will be first up for Great Britain. She faces Viktoria Hruncakova, with that match set to get underway in about 45 minutes.
Katie Boulter will then play Rebecca Sramkova in the second singles rubber.
Should the tie be level after those two matches, it will all go down to the doubles.
The British pairing of Olivia Nicholls and Heather Watson will face Hruncakova and Tereza Mihalikova if required.
Boulter and Raducanu leading British charge
10:11 , Matt VerriAnne Keothavong has been keen to ensure spirits are high in the British camp.
The team captain spoken earlier this week about the importance of her players enjoying spending time with each other, as she hailed the bond between Katie Boulter and Emma Raducanu.
“It's wonderful to see when you've got your top two players genuinely getting on, and there's huge amount of respect for each other,” said Keothavong.
“What's important for me in this competition is that the girls find a way to gel and get on.
“From my previous experience as a player, that wasn't always the case. So it's always been important for me as captain that we shape things to make sure the girls walk away with good experience and good memories.”
Slovakia a threat...
09:59 , Matt VerriGreat Britain are the favourites for this semi-final tie, but Slovakia should not be underestimated.
They were hugely impressive in beating Australia last time out.
Rebecca Sramkova raced to a 6-1 6-2 win over Ajla Tomljanovic, sealing victory after Viktoria Hruncakova rhad beaten Kimberly Birrell 7-5 6-7 (7-4) 6-3.
That was Hruncakova’s sixth straight BJK Cup win.
Keothavong: We can win it
09:47 , Matt VerriBritish captain Anne Keothavong has been in bullish mood in Malaga.
She made it clear ahead of the event that she believed here side could go all the way and lift the trophy, and that has only grow after two dominant wins.
"I said it before the competition started, I really believe that we can win this," said Keothavong.
"I don't have a problem saying that out loud."
Italy waiting in the final...
09:33 , Matt VerriItaly are through to the Billie Jean King Cup final for the second year in a row.
The four-time champions were beaten by Canada 12 months ago, but they have the chance to go one step further this.
Lucia Bronzetti got Italy off to the perfect start in their semi-final tie against Poland, beating Magda Linette in straight sets.
Iga Swiatek, though, took it to a deciding doubles rubber, beating Jasmine Paolini 3-6 6-4 6-4.
Swiatek and Paolini both played in that doubles match, one the Italians won 7-5 7-5 despite having trailed 5-1 in the second set.
Indomitable Italy! 🇮🇹
— Billie Jean King Cup (@BJKCup) November 18, 2024
Errani and Paolini come back from being down 1-5 to win the second set 7-5 and secure the tie 2-0 for @federtennis 🤯#BJKCup pic.twitter.com/oRgPqJX7OP
How to watch Great Britain vs Slovakia
09:25 , Matt VerriTV channel: Great Britain vs Slovakia will be broadcast by the BBC on the Red Button.
Live stream: The tie will be available to watch in full on the BBC Sport website and app, and BBC iPlayer.
Live coverage: You can follow the tie in full today right here with us!
When is Great Britain vs Slovakia
09:18 , Matt VerriThe semi-final tie between Great Britain and Slovakia is set to begin at 11am GMT this morning.
Raducanu will once again play the first singles match, with Boulter then following her on court.
If a doubles rubber is required, British duo Olivia Nicholls and Heather Watson are likely to be the pairing.
Good morning!
09:11 , Matt VerriHello and welcome to Standard Sport’s LIVE coverage of Great Britain vs Slovakia in the Billie Jean King Cup semi-finals!
The British team are within touching distance of a first final appearance since 1981, but Slovakia have impressed themselves so far in Malaga.
We’ll have all the build-up right here before full coverage of the tie, with Emma Raducanu first up for Great Britain.
