Italy has secured its place in the Davis Cup final after a nail-biting victory, spearheaded by Flavio Cobolli's incredible performance. Cobolli saved seven match points in a dramatic 32-point tie-break against Belgium's Zizou Bergs, sending the home crowd in Bologna into a frenzy.
A Tie-Break for the Ages
The match concluded with a score of 6-3, 6-7 (5-7), 7-6 (17-15) after more than three hours of intense tennis. The final tie-break was the sixth-longest in Davis Cup history, marking a truly memorable moment in the competition's 125-year history.
Following his victory, a jubilant Cobolli ripped off his shirt in celebration. He later comforted his opponent, Bergs, who was visibly distraught after the hard-fought match.
Cobolli's Dream Come True
“It's really tough to say something about this match,” said Cobolli. “We played for our countries and fought a lot for this win. In the end, I realised my dream and we are now in the final. I played an amazing match against a great opponent. I played for all of [the supporters], for all of my team, my family, for me. It is one of the best days of my life.”
Captain's Pride
Italy team captain Filippo Volandri expressed his astonishment at Cobolli's performance. “In my five years as captain I have never seen something like that. It was an unbelievable match. At the end I just said [it was] 5% tactics and 95% heart. This guy gave everything he had - I am really proud.”
Italy's Road to the Final
Italy, the two-time defending champions and this year's host with a wild card, will face either Spain or Germany in the final. Matteo Berrettini also contributed to Italy's victory by winning his singles match against Raphael Collignon. With Sinner and Musetti absent, Berrettini and Cobolli stepped up to secure Italy's place in the semi finals against Austria, defeating Rodionov and Misolic respectively. Italy now stands a chance to become the first country in over 50 years to win three straight Davis Cup titles. The Final 8 is being held in Bologna, Italy.