BOLOGNA, Italy: Hosts Italy kept their bid for a historic Davis Cup three-peat firmly on track after securing a commanding victory over Austria in Bologna on Wednesday, booking a semi-final showdown with Belgium.
Despite missing star names Jannik Sinner and Lorenzo Musetti, the Italians proved far too strong for their opponents, buoyed by an electric home crowd inside the Supertennis Arena. Matteo Berrettini and Flavio Cobolli delivered assured singles wins to seal the tie.
Berrettini, a former Wimbledon finalist, opened proceedings against Jurij Rodionov and overcame a late challenge to win 6-3, 7-6(4). After a brief delay caused by a lighting issue, Rodionov briefly threatened with a break of serve, but Berrettini’s composure and big serving made the difference—just as it had throughout 2024, when he won all six Davis Cup matches during Italy’s title defence.
Cobolli, stepping up as Italy’s number one for the week, followed with a dominant 6-1, 6-3 win over Filip Misolic, stamping out any hopes of an Austrian comeback. His inspired performance ensured Italy’s smooth passage into the last four.
With momentum building and a passionate crowd behind them, Italy now turn their attention to Belgium as the quest for a third straight Davis Cup crown continues.
