Bratislava, Slovakia – Hailee Baptist and Bernarda Pera won straight sets on Sunday, winning the US 2-1 against hosts Slovakia in the Billy Jean King Cup final.
Baptist defeated Renata Jamlikova 6-3, 6-4, and Pera overcame Slovakian No. 1 Rebecca Slamakova 7-6 (2), 7-5 in the Group C match.
“To be honest, I’m so overwhelmed by the emotions that I’m so happy,” Pera said. “I had so much fun with the team. The girls are amazing. I have so much support from all of them and I am very happy.”
The US defeated Denmark 3-0 on Saturday, and passed Group C.
Ena Shivahara and Aoyama secured Japan in the finals by beating Canadians Keracross and Rebecca Marino 6-3, 5-7 6-2 in the decisive doubles match in Group A.
Canada took a 1-0 lead when Victoria Mboko defeated Shinobu 6-4, 6-7 (8) and 7-5. Japan evenly tied with China, who defeated Marina Stakuchic 6-3, 6-3 in their second single.
“I’m so happy to have achieved doubles today,” Shinobu said.
The BJK Cup final will be held in Shenzhen in September, and Japan will be competing in the second consecutive final, trying to match the best performance ever. He reached the semi-finals in 1996.