Great Britain were knocked out of the Billie Jean King Cup at the semi-final stage by a resilient Slovakia who came from a point down to triumph in Malaga and set up a clash with Italy in the final.
Britain stuck with the gameplan that brought them success in the week with Emma Raducanu leading off against Viktoria Hruncakova. The British No. 2 was in fabulous form and won an early break on her way to a 6-4 6-4 straight set victory.
In the second singles match Katie Boulter looked to be sending Britain to their first BJK Cup final since 1981 when she took the opening set against Rebecca Sramkova but there was a twist to come. Sramkova overturned the set deficit and stormed to a well fought 6-2 4-6 4-6 victory leaving the tie in the balance.
A deciding doubles match saw Heather Watson and Olivia Nicholls take to the court for the first time this week but they were outclassed by the Slovakian duo of Hrancakova and Tereza Mihalikova who took a 6-2 6-2 win to advance to the next stage.
Relive the latest updates with our live blog below:
BJK Cup - GB vs Slovakia
- Great Britain defeat 2-1 by Slovakia in semi-finals of Billie Jean King Cup
- Olivia Nicholls and Heather Watson beaten by Viktoria Hruncakova and Tereza Mihalikova in doubles decider
- Emma Raducanu defeats Viktoria Hruncakova 6-4 6-4 in opening rubber
- Rebecca Sramkova beats Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 4-6 to keep Slovakia in the contest
Great Britain suffer Billie Jean King Cup semi-final heartbreak against Slovakia
17:42 , Mike JonesGreat Britain suffered Billie Jean King Cup heartbreak as Slovakia fought back to claim a 2-1 victory in the semi-finals in Malaga.
Britain looked to be heading for their first final in the competition since 1981 when Emma Raducanu defeated Viktoria Hruncakova 6-4 6-4 and Katie Boulter won the opening set against Rebecca Sramkova.
Neither had dropped a set all week until that point but Boulter could not maintain her advantage and Sramkova fought back to claim a 2-6 6-4 6-4 victory and send the tie to a deciding doubles.
Great Britain suffer Billie Jean King Cup semi-final heartbreak against Slovakia
Reaction from Tereza Mihalikova
17:35 , Mike JonesTereza Mihalikova said: “I cried like a baby but now I’m very calm and ready for tomorrow. We need one more win, then we can touch the trophy.”
Reaction from Viktoria Hruncakova
17:34 , Mike JonesViktoria Hruncakova spoke after her doubles win saying: “We all feel absolutely amazing. The atmosphere was amazing and we played our best doubles in our lives.
“We’re so happy to be in the final.”
Great Britain defeated by Slovakia in BJK Cup semi-finals
17:29 , Mike Jones
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 2-6 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
17:19 , Mike JonesThat’s it. It’s all over, Great Britain have been knocked out of the Billie Jean King Cup. Viktoria Hruncakova and Tereza Mihalikova were just too good, too strong and too controlled in the doubles for Heather Watson and Olivia Nicholls.
They won 6-2 6-2 in straight sets to claim a 2-1 victory for Slovakia and send them through to the final where they’ll face Italy for the trophy.
It’s a heartbreaking exit for Britain who have performed wonderfully all week but they couldn’t quite get the job done.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 2-5 Hruncakova/Mihalikova*
17:14 , Mike JonesThis is a huge game for Olivia Nicholls who needs to hold or else Slovakia have the chance to serve for the win. Her opponents go after her opening two serves and take the points but Watson helps get GB on the board.
Hruncakova then draws both Brits to the net and lobs a winner over them to set up two break points. An error from Mihalikova saves the first for Great Britain.
Nicholls can’t save the second! Slovakia need one more game to reach the final.
*Watson/Nicholls 2-6 2-4 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
17:09 , Mike JonesIf Slovakia manage to hold their serves they’ll win this match and this semi-final. Great Britain have to force the issue but it’s not happening for them at present.
Hruncakova takes a couple of points before Nicholls responds with a fine volley from the net to keep Britain in touch at 30-15.
Watson then volleys over an angled drop shot meaning the game draws level. Katie Boulter looks forlorn on the sidelines. This is tense.
Hruncakova manages to get one to land on the line before Mihalikova smashes back a winner for Slovakia. The next rally goes their way too and they hold serve.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 2-3 Hruncakova/Mihalikova*
17:04 , Mike JonesBritain need a response and Watson is there to provide one. She’s strong on her serve and wins the first couple of points from the next game. An error from Mihalikova sees the ball clip the tape and Britain move closer to a hold of serve.
Watson secures it with a serve to Hruncakova’s backhand which is drilled into the net.
*Watson/Nicholls 2-6 1-3 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
17:01 , Mike JonesThe Slovakian duo are seriously impressive but Heather Watson is just as determined to wrestle back some points. A great backhand volley from the net puts GB on the board against the serve then Mihalikova lifts one too wide.
Nicholls gets back the next serve and the follow up volley is drilled too long! Two break points for the Brits...
... they miss out on the first one as Watson finds the net. They miss out on the second one as Mihalikova pings down an ace!
Nicholls receives the sudden death point she gets it back but then pushes a forehand too wide and Slovakia get their hold.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 1-2 Hruncakova/Mihalikova* - Break!
16:56 , Mike JonesOh no! Hruncakova and Mihalikova seem to be more in sync. They’re certainly landing more winning shots with the Brits sending their efforts agonisingly wide.
The Slovakians open up a 0-40 lead and break!
That could be a huge moment in this semi-final. Is there a way back for Great Britain?
*Watson/Nicholls 2-6 1-1 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:52 , Mike JonesA solid start to the second set for Watson and Nicholls. Can they capitalise and put some pressure on the Slovakians? Hruncakova is up first with the serve.
She is pinpoint accurate and neither Brit can get back a return from the first couple of serves. Watson then latches onto a return but Mihalikova volleys from the net. Nicholls is on hand to flick a shot back but sends her next effort, on the volley, too wide.
Slovakia move 40-0 up and Britain take a point before a Hrancakova smash secures the hold.
Watson/Nicholls 2-6 1-0 Hruncakova/Mihalikova*
16:49 , Mike JonesGreat Britain are on the back foot now. Heather Watson and Olivia Nicholls began to find their rhythm towards the end of that first set but they’ll need to find another level to get back into the match.
Watson has the first serve and helps GB to a 40-30 lead. Mihalikova meets a volley at the net and takes the game to deuce. It’s a struggle already for Britain but Watson gets them over the line.
*Watson/Nicholls 2-6 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:44 , Kieran JacksonSlovakia win the first set!
Slovakia have their first set point at 40-30, but Nicholls dominates at the net to get the game to a sudden death deuce!
But Mihalikova stands firm on serve and at the net, and a volley to Watson’s feet is good enough for the set!
Work to do for GB. Slovakia are a set away from tomorrow’s final!
Watson/Nicholls 2-5 Hruncakova/Mihalikova*
16:36 , Kieran JacksonStunning pick-up from Olivia Nicholls at the net for 30-0, before Watson returns the favour with a forehand volley winner!
GB hold to 15 - but Slovakia will now serve for the first set!
And no matter what, they’ll have two chances to do so!
*Watson/Nicholls 1-5 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:33 , Kieran JacksonA double fault from Hruncakova at 30-15 gives GB a peek, but Nicholls misses a forehand volley when she’d done so well to stay in the point at the net!
Nicholls then sends a forehand return waywardly wide and Slovakia are now just a game away from the first set!
Watson/Nicholls 1-4 Hruncakova/Mihalikova*
16:28 , Kieran JacksonWatson finds her serve when she needs it and Great Britain finally get on the board here!
Still a double break, though.
*Watson/Nicholls 0-4 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:23 , Kieran JacksonA comfortable hold to 15, with Hruncakova the star of the show at the moment as she seals the game with a forehand volley winner.
Complete domination from Slovakia at the moment. Great Britain need to find something, fast.
Watson/Nicholls 0-3 Hruncakova/Mihalikova*
16:18 , Kieran JacksonA bad start for GB here.
Slovakia are on the offensive and Nicholls’ serve comes under pressure straight away with a string of terrific returns.
Nicholls recovers from 0-40 to 30-40 before Hruncakova - again - crunches a return winner down the line!
Stunning shot! Slovakia up a double break early on!
*Watson/Nicholls 0-2 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:14 , Kieran JacksonGorgeous drop volley from Watson at the start of that game but Hruncakova’s booming serve gets the Slovaks out of jail at 15-30.
Watson sends a forehand wide down-the-line after a lengthy exchange as Slovakia take a two-game lead.
Watson/Nicholls 0-1 Hruncakova/Mihalikova*
16:09 , Kieran JacksonTwo terrific lobs from the Slovakian pairing in the game brings up 30-40 and break point, but Watson does well to save with a strong first serve into the body to Hruncakova!
Sudden death deuce, with Hruncakova returning on the ad side - and the Slovak nails the return pass Nicholls down the line!
First blood to Slovakia!
Watson/Nicholls 0-0 Hruncakova/Mihalikova
16:05 , Kieran JacksonHere we go then in the doubles decider!
Heather Watson will serve first for the British pair!
Great Britain vs Slovakia doubles decider
16:00 , Luke BakerAnd here come the players. It all comes down to this Nicholls & Watson for GB against Hruncakova and Mihalikova for Slovakia.
Slovakia win the toss and elect to receive. We’ll have the warm-ups and then play will get underway to decide who reaches the BJK Cup final.
Reaction from Rebecca Sramkova after beating Katie Boulter:
15:54 , Mike Jones“It didn’t start in the best way for me, she was serving and returning amazing in the first set. It was tough for me to play how I wanted.
“I was trying to push her more but it was impossible in the first set. I’m happy I was pushing more in the second and third set and we got a point.”
GB vs Slovakia doubles decider
15:46 , Luke BakerIt all comes down to a doubles decider between GB and Slovakia to decide who will face Italy in the Billie Jean King Cup final.
Olivia Nicholls and Heather Watson will represent Great Britain, having not been needed so far this week, and they will face Slovakia’s Viktoria Hruncakova and Tereza Mihalikova. Hruncakova lost to Emma Raducanu in the singles earlier of course.
If Nicholls and Watson win, they’ll take Britain to the final for the first time since 1981 but lose and GB are out.
The players are scheduled on court at 3.55pm GMT, so not long to wait for that one to start.
Emma Raducanu puts Great Britain one win away from Billie Jean King Cup final
15:40 , Mike JonesEmma Raducanu made it a hat-trick of wins in Malaga to put Great Britain one victory away from the Billie Jean King Cup final.
The 22-year-old is yet to drop a set and followed up her successes against Jule Niemeier and Rebecca Marino by overcoming Slovakia’s Viktoria Hruncakova 6-4 6-4.
Raducanu was a big favourite on paper against the world number 238 and she could not find the same fluency in a nervy encounter, but she did enough to clinch a priceless point.
Emma Raducanu puts Great Britain one win away from Billie Jean King Cup final
Great Britain vs Slovakia heads to doubles decider
15:36 , Mike JonesA doubles match will decide which of these teams reaches the Billie Jean King Cup final after Emma Raducanu’s win was cancelled out by Rebecca Sramkova.
It’ll be the first time this week that Britain have needed a doubles match to decide a contest so it’ll be interesting to see how they hold up.
The match is due to start at 3.55pm.
Rebecca Sramkova fights back to beat Katie Boulter
15:32 , Mike Jones
Rebecca Sramkova fights back to beat Katie Boulter
15:29 , Mike JonesSlovakia draw level at 1-1 in this semi-final and now take the encounter to a doubles decider. Rebecca Sramkova was incredible. She faced massive pressure at one set down against Boulter but had enough in the tank to get through.
*Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 4-6 Rebecca Sramkova - Game, set and match!
15:26 , Mike JonesThe pressure is back on Katie Boulter who can’t afford to lose this game. She must hold to keep the match going.
She starts with an ace of her own which is only her fourth of the match. Boulter then misses out on a backhand down the line to bring the game level at 15-15.
Sramkova then claims the next two points to set up two match points. Boulter saves the first one with a fine smash volley but the pressure is still there.
The Brit then misses a backhand down the line and Sramkova wins the match!
*Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 4-5 Rebecca Sramkova
15:21 , Mike JonesNeither player wants to take the risk of a winner and as such the margins are very tight. Boulter clips the tape in the next rally with the ball bouncing back onto her side of court.
Sramkova then flings down an ace to hold serve. Advantage Slovakia.
Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 4-4 Rebecca Sramkova*
15:19 , Mike JonesThat is great! Boulter wins the first point of the game with a cross court forehand that is too quick and pacey for Sramkova to return.
It’s only one point though and Sramkova responds by working the Brit all over the court. 15-15.
The Slovakian follows up with a wide ace then goes down the T for a fault. Boulter attacks the second serve and crunches it down the line with her forehand. 30-30.
It’s blow for blow at the minute.
Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 4-4 Rebecca Sramkova*
15:15 , Mike JonesKatie Boulter has to fight in every game. For the last two sets she’s been trailing and every win keeps her either level or behind on the scoreboard.
The Brit needs to put a run of games together, starting with this one.
Sramkova sense the moment though and attacks. She gets up to 30-30 as Boulter looks to be flagging. A return of serve lands in the net though which buoys on the British contingent.
Boulter holds serve and draws level again!
*Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 3-4 Rebecca Sramkova
15:10 , Mike JonesSramkova and Boulter share a point each in the seventh game of the third set before the Slovakian latches onto a volley and smashes back a winner.
Sramkova looks to kill off Boulter’s resistance and gets some help from the tape to move 40-15 up. She holds her serve and edges back into the lead.
Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 3-3 Rebecca Sramkova*
15:07 , Mike JonesKatie Boulter’s team-mates are cheering her on from the sidelines and they’re trying to do their part in swinging the momentum back in their favour.
Boulter’s service game sees her win the first two points but a forceful return from Sramkova forces an error from the Brit. At 30-15, Boulter is drawn into a rally and hangs in until Sramkova lifts a forehand wide.
Boulter then manages to get an inside out forehand over the net and lands it right on the line! That’s a hold of serve for her.
*Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 2-3 Rebecca Sramkova - Break!
15:01 , Mike JonesRebecca Sramkova is in the lead and has the ascendancy in the set. A break of serve has given her control and now Boulter is the one who has to fight back.
She starts well with a couple of points off Sramkova’s serve and throws out the fist pumps. A forehand winner sets Boulter up with three break points and the Brit could immediately get the break back.
Sramkova plays a drop shot that Boulter should put away instead she forces it too wide and the chance to break narrows. It narrows further as Sramkova wins the next point with a backhand down the line. That’s two break points saved.
Sramkova can’t save the third! Boulter needed that break and she took it.
Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 1-3 Rebecca Sramkova* - Break!
14:55 , Mike JonesThis is still anyone’s match but Rebecca Sramkova will be feeling the better of the two. She’s fought from a set down to lead in the third set and looks supremely confident.
Boulter loses the first two points of her next service game and then smokes a drive volley out of play. She’s only won one game in the last five and has three break points to save.
She can’t.
*Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 1-2 Rebecca Sramkova
14:51 , Mike JonesThat’s a quality game from Rebecca Sramkova who rattles through a quick service game to hold serve to love. Over to you Katie Boulter.
Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 1-1 Rebecca Sramkova*
14:49 , Mike JonesOh no! Boulter gets herself ahead before a long rally develops at 30-15. Boutler spies a chance for a winner but forces her forehand too long and the point slips away.
She doesn’t panic and a wayward backhand from Sramkova eases the pressure on the Brit. Boutler holds serve with a nice volley and gets a nod of approval from her team captain.
*Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 0-1 Rebecca Sramkova
14:44 , Mike JonesRebecca Sramkova offers few opportunities for Katie Boulter in the first game of the third set. The Slovakian wins two points with aces but Boulter takes two of her own when rallies develop.
The Brit then attacks with a cross court forehand but doesn’t land it in play and Sramkova edges ahead. She holds serve.
Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 0-0 Rebecca Sramkova*
14:42 , Mike JonesThat’s the first set Great Britain have lost this week but all is not lost. Katie Boulter has to come through a deciding set to ensure her team reach the Billie Jean King Cup final for the first time since 1981.
Can she do it?
Katie Boulter 6-2 4-6 Rebecca Sramkova - Game and set!
14:40 , Mike JonesBoutler saves the first one with a fine serve out wide to Sramkova’s forehand. She can’t save the second one as Sramkova whips a forehand winner past the Brit to clinch the set!
*Katie Boulter 6-2 4-5 Rebecca Sramkova
14:38 , Mike JonesSramkova will go all out to win the set in this game. She’s got nothing to lose and everything to gain by being overly aggressive. Boulter had to hold.
Sramkova just misses out on a wide forehand and gives the first point to Boulter. The Brit then finds the net and the two players are back to trading blows. 15-15.
Boulter then misses out on a volley before blazing a backhand into the net. Sramkova has two set points!
*Katie Boulter 6-2 4-5 Rebecca Sramkova
14:34 , Mike JonesRebecca Sramkova needs a reset. She’s had her moments to kill off Katie Boulter in this set but hasn’t been able to shake her. From Sramkova’s next service game she wins the first couple of points to settle the nerves.
A serve to Boutler’s forehand sets up a forehand return which Boulter puts too long. The Slovakian holds serve to love and has the chance to win the set.
She just needs to break Boutler now.
Katie Boulter 6-2 4-4 Rebecca Sramkova*
14:31 , Mike JonesBoulter is drawn into another tough game as Sramkova matches her point for point to 30-30. There’s a tense hush in the arena before Boutler sends a serve out wide and draws an error out of the Slovakian.
The Brit then holds her serve as Sramkova goes long! The momentum has swung back to Boulter in this set.
*Katie Boulter 6-2 3-4 Rebecca Sramkova - Break!
14:26 , Mike JonesThis is the game for Boutler. She needs to win here and now to put all the pressure back on her opponent. A wayward forehand from Sramkova gives the first point to the Brit before an second error puts Boulter 0-30 up as she hunts for the break of serve.
Sramkova goes long again and sets up three break points for Boutler to attack. This is fine stuff from the British No. 1.
Boulter does go after her. She meets the second serve with a forehand to the baseline and Sramkova hooks her return out of play. Boutler breaks and the second set is back on serve.
Katie Boulter 6-2 2-4 Rebecca Sramkova*
14:22 , Mike JonesBoulter needs to get a foothold in the set. The momentum has been taken from her but a hold of serve here will help proceedings. The Brit moves 30-15 ahead but Sramkova seems hungry.
She goes after Boutler’s second serve and targets the middle of court. Boutler responds by keeping the ball in play forcing her opponent into the net.
Boutler holds and closes the gap.
*Katie Boulter 6-2 1-4 Rebecca Sramkova
14:18 , Mike JonesRebecca Sramkova opens up a handy lead now! She’s three games ahead of Katie Boulter with that completed break. Boutler can’t panic, there’s plenty of time left in the set but the Brit needs to rediscover her form from the first set.
The next game will be a big one. Boulter needs to land her serves to turn this around.
Katie Boulter 6-2 1-3 Rebecca Sramkova*
14:16 , Mike JonesRebecca Sramkova looks to take advantage of her strong position but she can’t get away from Katie Boulter who takes the game to 30-30.
A serve out wide wins Sramkova the next point and one more will see her complete the break.
Boutler hangs in the rally and forces Sramkova side-to-side. She takes the point and forces the game to deuce. Boutler isn’t giving this set up.
Katie Boulter 6-2 1-3 Rebecca Sramkova*
14:12 , Mike JonesNo! A double fault gifts the game to Rebecca Sramkova. Katie Boulter is paying a heavy price for missing her first serves. The set is there to be won for the Slovakian now.
*Katie Boulter 6-2 1-2 Rebecca Sramkova
14:11 , Mike JonesEmma Raducanu has finished her recovery and is back in the arena to cheer on Katie Boulter in this match. There are a lot of nervous faces from both team benches but only looks of determination on the faces of Boutler and Sramkova.
Both players trade points as Boutler looks to hold serve, the Brit then sends a forehand too wide and puts her opponent ahead at 15-30.
The pressure is on once more.
Boulter handles it well. She wins the next rally but then goes too long! Sramkova has another break point now. Can Boulter hold serve?
*Katie Boulter 6-2 1-2 Rebecca Sramkova - Break!
14:07 , Mike JonesBoutler breaks back immediately! Sramkova had 40-15 advantage in that game but somehow Boulter fought her way into the game and then won it.
A volley winner from the Brit sends her yelling in celebration. The second set is back on serve.
Katie Boulter 6-2 0-2 Rebecca Sramkova*
14:05 , Mike JonesWow. Rebecca Sramkova lands three aces in a row but it’s not quite enough to avoid any hint of an immediate break back from Katie Boulter.
Boulter twice attacks the second serve before landing a forehand on the line to force the game to deuce! This is great skill from both players.
Katie Boulter 6-2 0-2 Rebecca Sramkova - Break!
14:02 , Mike JonesBoulter saves it from the serve!
From deuce, the Brit pushes one too wide and Sramkova lands a backhand winner to secure a break. Now that’s a momentum swinger.
Katie Boulter 6-2 0-1 Rebecca Sramkova*
13:59 , Mike JonesWith Boulter serving second in this set she needs to ensure that she keeps pace with Sramkova before choosing the right moment to attack and get the break.
Emma Raducanu did that brilliantly in her match earlier.
There’s a bit of pressure on Boulter after a double fault and a pacey return of serve from Sramkova brings the game to 30-30. Boulter responds with a serve to the forehand then punts a forehand of her own too long!
Break point for Sramkova.
*Katie Boulter 6-2 0-1 Rebecca Sramkova
13:55 , Mike JonesGreat Britain are now just one set away from the Billie Jean King Cup final but Katie Boulter still have work to do. She’ll need to keep Sramkova at bay and not allow the Slovakian to swing the momentum of this match.
Sramkova kicks off the second set with a hold of serve to love but Boulter is making her work for every point. There’ll be no easy games in this set.
Katie Boulter 6-2 0-0 Rebecca Sramkova*
13:53 , Mike Jones
Katie Boulter 6-2 Rebecca Sramkova
13:51 , Mike JonesSramkova isn’t feeling the pressure. She saves both set points and forces the game to deuce. Boulter slows things down and resets but faults on her next first serve.
Her second serve is hooked back but Boulter comes down the line and wins the point. There’s another chance to win the set now.
This time she takes it! It’s an ace down the T line. Her first of the match.
*Katie Boulter 5-2 Rebecca Sramkova
13:48 , Mike JonesA hold of serve will earn Katie Boulter this opening set and pile heaps of pressure on Rebecca Sramkova. The Brit begins the game by forcing her opponent into the net before lacing a forehand down the line to double her lead.
Sramkova looks so uncomfortable on court at the minute. She knows that she’s being outplayed.
Boulter gives up a point with a forehand into the net but wins the next rally to give herself two set points.
*Katie Boulter 5-2 Rebecca Sramkova
13:44 , Mike JonesOh my. Boulter unleashes on a second serve and drills a forehand across the court leaving Sramkova no chance at getting the return back.
The Brit closes in on a double break moving 15-40 into the lead against the serve.
Sramkova lands a great serve on the T line to take the next point but then belts a backhand over the far end of court. Boulter moves three games ahead and will serve for the set.
Katie Boulter 4-2 Rebecca Sramkova*
13:41 , Mike JonesKatie Boulter is throwing out a celebratory fist pump for every point she wins. She knows the importance of this match and what it would mean for Great Britain to reach the final of this tournament.
Boulter takes a 30-15 lead on her own serve before sending a fine forehand across court. Sramkova looks to return down the line but the accuracy isn’t there.
Boulter has a two point cushion which helps her hold serve. She’s edging closer to this first set.
*Katie Boulter 3-2 Rebecca Sramkova
13:36 , Mike JonesAn almost perfect response from Rebecca Sramkova who secures her first hold of the set, only giving up one point in the game. Both players are having their moments with Boulter edging the crucial ones.
The pressure is right there for both players though and there’s a long way to go in this match.
Katie Boulter 3-1 Rebecca Sramkova*
13:33 , Mike JonesIt’s been a tough start to this set for Boulter but she manages to hold serve as Sramkova pings a forehand out of play. Boulter takes the lead in this set.
*Katie Boulter 2-1 Rebecca Sramkova
13:30 , Mike JonesBoulter pins Sramkova in the bottom left corner and won’t let her out. The Slovakian looks to change the momentum of the rally by coming down the line but mishits here effort and sends the ball wide.
When Boulter finds the net in the next rally, Sramkova sets up a break point. An off balance forehand from the Slovakian sends the ball out of play and brings the game to deuce.
*Katie Boulter 2-1 Rebecca Sramkova
13:26 , Mike JonesNice from Boulter. She moves Sramkova over to the left with an inside out forehand that forces her opponent into the net. Her first service game wasn’t all that great but she seems to have found a bit of confidence here.
Boutler looks for a winner down the line but clips the top of the tape and gives up a point. 15-15.
*Katie Boulter 2-1 Rebecca Sramkova
13:24 , Mike JonesBoulter finds the angle on a return of serve backhand to get a point on the board from Sramkova’s next service game. An error from the Slovakian allows Boutler to edge ahead.
In the next rally the ball clips the tape and Sramkova drills a forehand over the back of court. Boulter then breaks with an incredible return of serve down the line!
Three games down, three breaks so far.
Katie Boulter 1-1 Rebecca Sramkova*
13:21 , Mike JonesBoulter’s solid start is already slipping as a couple of shots find the net leaving Sramkova with a couple of break points. She manages to get the break with a fine return from wide.
Boulter can’t keep the ball in play and the first set is on serve again.
*Katie Boulter 1-0 Rebecca Sramkova
13:18 , Mike JonesThree break points were too many for Sramkova to save and Katie Boulter takes the first game with a break of serve. Boulter is bouncing around court and looks determined to get off to a strong start.
For her first service game she serves out to the forehand before switching across court and winning the point with a fine backhand winner.
Boulter looks confident.
Katie Boulter 0-0 Rebecca Sramkova*
13:16 , Mike JonesRebecca Sramkova has the opening serve and, much like Emma Raducanu before her, Katie Boulter looks to make a quick start to this match.
She wins the first three points and opens up a massive lead before Sramkova targets Boulter’s backhand and gets on the board. 15-40.
More from Raducanu
13:14 , Mike Jones“It’s amazing to have this support. Today I felt like I needed it and the team is going to need it. I really appreciate so much support from everyone on the GB side.
“I’m going to get everything done as soon as possible so I can come back here and support, and give everything like I just did on the court on the bench. I wish Katie well, she’s playing amazing and I can’t wait to come out and support her as well.”
Raducanu reacts to Hruncakova win
13:14 , Mike Jones“Every match is extremely challenging and as the tournament progresses it’s more and more. It was a really tough battle because my opponent has a huge ball-strike and she plays much above her ranking. On these courts, it really suits her. But I was really pleased with how I composed myself and served it out in both sets.
“Both sides of hers come with extreme power and if you give her time to either side, she can really hit it. The tactic was to try to keep her moving and not let her get the first strike in. I did that well with my serving and starting the point and I’m really happy to come through that.”
Katie Boulter v Rebecca Sramkova
13:06 , Mike JonesKatie Boulter will face Rebecca Sramkova in the second match of this semi-final. Sramkova took on the Brit in Rome earlier this year and defeated her so there is history between these two.
Boulter has the safety net after Emma Raducanu’s win but she’ll want to send GB into the final.
‘Raducanu’s immaculate week continues'
12:58 , Mike JonesBBC commentator Sue Thearle said: “Emma Raducanu’s immaculate week continues. She hasn’t dropped a set and she has delivered another priceless victory.
“She gives Great Britain real momentum at the start of this semi-final. What performance and what a win to get Anne Keothavong’s team going in this.”
Emma Raducanu triumphs over Viktoria Hruncakova
12:56 , Mike Jones
Emma Raducanu triumphs over Viktoria Hruncakova
12:54 , Mike JonesA straight set victory for Emma Raducanu puts Great Britain in control of this semi-final and now it’s over to Katie Boulter to see this out and take them to the final for the first time since 1981.
She’s on court next.
*Emma Raducanu 6-4 6-4 Viktoria Hruncakova - Game, set and match!
12:53 , Mike JonesRaducanu opens up with a serve down the T that Hruncakova gets back. The Brit goes into the net and gives up the first point. 0-15.
The next point is won by Raducanu though as she wraps her wrist around a forehand return that flies across court. 15-15.
Hruncakova then misses out on a return of serve to put Raducanu into the lead before an error takes the Brit within one point of the win. 40-15.
Raducanu serves out to the forehand and aces! That’s game, set and match.
*Emma Raducanu 6-4 5-4 Viktoria Hruncakova
12:49 , Mike JonesHruncakova holds serve. Raducanu needs to win this game to take the match. Can she do it?
Emma Raducanu 6-4 5-3 Viktoria Hruncakova*
12:47 , Mike JonesThere’s still a couple of chances for Raducanu to get the job done. She can either break Hruncakova here or else has another service game to win.
The Slovakian is going to force Raducanu to serve out. Hruncakova is upping her level again and falling back on power hitting to win the points.
She moves 30-0 up before a forehand finds the net giving Raducanu a foothold and a point.
Emma Raducanu 6-4 5-3 Viktoria Hruncakova* - Break!
12:45 , Mike JonesHruncakova goes after the serve and takes the first two points off Raducanu. It was at this point in the first set that the Slovakian began to play her best tennis.
She’s doing so again with a backhand down the line that takes her to 0-40. She’s got three break points now.
Raducanu saves the first one. An ace saves the second one. Hruncakova powers a backhand across court and takes the break!
*Emma Raducanu 6-4 5-2 Viktoria Hruncakova - Break!
12:40 , Mike JonesA double fault from Hruncakova gifts Raducanu two break points but the Slovakian fizzes down an ace to save the first one. Raducanu secures the break though as her opponent goes too long!
Raducanu will serve for the match.
Emma Raducanu 6-4 4-2 Viktoria Hruncakova*
12:38 , Mike JonesOh wow! Raducanu takes the first point of the next game and is then forced onto the defensive. She sprints from side to side before unleashing on a cross court forehand that lands right in the corner.
Hruncakova takes the next point but still trails 15-30.
Emma Raducanu 6-4 4-2 Viktoria Hruncakova*
12:37 , Mike JonesRaducanu holds! The Brit moves two games ahead in the second set and has a break completed. She’s closing in on winning this match and giving Great Britain the advantage in this semi-final.
Can Hruncakova get back into the set?
*Emma Raducanu 6-4 3-2 Viktoria Hruncakova
12:34 , Mike JonesHruncakova turns a backhand into the net and gives Raducanu the chance at closing out the game. She can’t get it done straight away as she clips the tape and brings the game to deuce.
A fine forehand down the line takes her to advantage before a cross court backhand hits the net. Back to deuce.
*Emma Raducanu 6-4 3-2 Viktoria Hruncakova
12:30 , Mike JonesNow then, can Raducanu hold serve here and complete the break?
She starts off the game with a double fault before following up with an ace to make it 15-15. Raducanu then serves out to the forehand and follows up to the same side of court, Hruncakova is off balance and can’t get in the return.
A backhand from Raducanu then hits the net and there’s nothing to separate the two players again. 30-30.
*Emma Raducanu 6-4 3-2 Viktoria Hruncakova - Break!
12:26 , Mike JonesA backhand return of serve from Raducanu puts her into the lead against the serve and she doubles the advantage when Hruncavkova goes long.
The Slovakian manages to claw her way back into the game but a backhand slice from Raducanu draws the error and sets up a couple of break points. Can she take one?
Yes! Hruncakova misses out on a smash and Raducanu goes ahead in the set.
Emma Raducanu 6-4 2-2 Viktoria Hruncakova*
12:24 , Mike JonesThat’s good.
A tight game sees the two women trade blows and points up to 30-30 before Emma Raducanu serves an ace down the T and closes out the game with another one.
Lovely serving from the Brit.
*Emma Raducanu 6-4 1-2 Viktoria Hruncakova
12:19 , Mike JonesHruncakova is giving herself a pep talk after a couple of errors. That’s a sign that she feels as though she’s now playing well enough to challenge Raducanu.
The Brit slots a lovely return of serve down the line with her forehand and moves within a point of the Slovakian at 40-30.
Hruncakova gets the hold though when Raducanu pings a backhand into the net. She leads in the second set.
Emma Raducanu 6-4 1-1 Viktoria Hruncakova*
12:16 , Mike JonesAnd Raducanu does respond!
A hold of serve to love will restore a bit of confidence in the Brit who draws level in the second set. The first break, whichever way it comes, could be crucial to determine who wins here.
*Emma Raducanu 6-4 0-1 Viktoria Hruncakova
12:14 , Mike JonesThe second set begins with a fine hold of serve for Viktoria Hruncakova. She’s found her footing on this court and will go through the gears to cause issues for Emma Raducanu.
A response is needed.
Emma Raducanu 6-4 Viktoria Hruncakova - Game and set Raducanu!
12:08 , Mike JonesIt was tough in the end but Emma Raducanu gets over the line and claims the opening set of the match. Viktoria Hruncakova fought back brilliantly and things will be closer from here on.
*Emma Raducanu 5-4 Viktoria Hruncakova
12:06 , Mike JonesThis is Emma Raducanu’s second chance to see out this set. She pulls her length back just a touch and lands her shots closer to the net than the baseline.
Hrunkacova seems reluctant to come forward and can only float a forehand out of play. Raducanu takes the next point with a decent serve before going wide to the forehand. Hrunkacova smokes it back but Raducanu is well placed to flick it back and force another error.
Three set points for the Brit.
*Emma Raducanu 5-4 Viktoria Hruncakova
12:03 , Mike JonesOh no! Hrunkacova controls the game and works Raducanu from side to side. She sends her over to the right but the Brit manages to squeeze back a return from a tight angle.
Hrunkacova should win the point but instead sends the ball into the net. The Slovakian edges into a 40-30 lead though before a return of serve from Raducanu goes long and gives her another game.
That’s three in a row for the Slovakian.
Emma Raducanu 5-3 Viktoria Hruncakova* - Break!
11:59 , Mike JonesA double fault ends Raducanu’s hopes of getting the first set closed off. Hrunkacova is right on top of her game now as evidence by a blistering forehand winner she belts across court.
*Emma Raducanu 5-2 Viktoria Hruncakova
11:54 , Mike JonesEmma Raducanu is now serving to close out the first set. So far she’s sent down three double faults and three aces in this match as she attempts to increase the power of the first serve.
A drop shot from Hrunkacova is no trouble for Raducanu who flies up court and flicks it back into play to win the point.
Her opponent isn’t letting the set go quietly. She finds the baseline with a strong return then whips a forehand across court forcing a miscue from Raducanu.
The game moves level at 30-30.
*Emma Raducanu 5-2 Viktoria Hruncakova
11:49 , Mike JonesHrunkacova is beginning to click into gear. It may be too little too late for this opening set but the more she begins to feel at home on the court the better her chances of winning the match.
The Slovakian moves 40-15 ahead with a lovely crosscourt backhand but just when it feels as though the momentum is with her she sends down a double fault.
It doesn’t matter though. Hrunkacova holds serve and is still in this set.
Emma Raducanu 5-1 Viktoria Hruncakova*
11:44 , Mike JonesRaducanu is properly turning up the heat. Her accuracy, hitting corner to corner, is frighteningly good and causing a lot of problems for Hrunkacova.
A body serve from Raducanu forces the Slovakian into another error before a backhand down the line winner puts Raducanu 40-0 up in the game.
She holds serve with her second ace of the match.
*Emma Raducanu 4-1 Viktoria Hruncakova
11:40 , Mike JonesVery impressive. Emma Raducanu is powering her way into an increased lead with Hrunkacova unable to match the level of the Brit. Raducanu has three break points and takes the break with a strong forehand that her opponent pumps back into the net.
A perfect start for Great Britain.
Emma Raducanu 3-1 Viktoria Hruncakova*
11:38 , Mike JonesBack over to Emma Raducanu. She was made to work hard to hold her first service game but starts well in this one with another back hand down the line.
That’s great!
Hrunkacova comes forward to work the ball from the net but a passing forehand from Raducanu is too good for her and the Brit moves 30-0 up.
Two more fine serves give the game to Raducanu who keeps her two-game lead in tact.
*Emma Raducanu 2-1 Viktoria Hrunkacova
11:33 , Mike JonesRaducanu just needs to hold serve for the rest of this set and she’ll take the lead in the match. Hrunkacova opens up the next game with a double fault.
A blistering forehand from Raducanu sees her take another point but she can’t shake off her opponent who moves back level at 30-30.
A big serve from Hrunkacova troubles Raducanu who belts it too long. The Slovakian then holds serve. Game on.
Emma Raducanu 2-0 Viktoria Hruncakova*
11:30 , Mike JonesNo! This is going to be a well deserved win for whoever takes this game.
The two women are slugging it out, Raducanu stretches to whip another backhand down the line then takes the game as Hrunkacova’s return goes long!
*Emma Raducanu 1-0 Viktoria Hruncakova
11:27 , Mike JonesRaducanu has the chance to close out the game but is dragged back to deuce before a double fault sets up another break point for Slovakia.
Raducanu doesn’t want to give this game up. An inside out forehand from the Brit lands right in the corner and Hrunkacova can’t get to the return.
A backhand winner puts Raducanu back within one point of holding her serve. Can she get over the line?
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