A TRIO of European nations head to Sydney for Group B, with two of the three nations topping their United Cup groups 12 months ago. Poland returns with its star studded one-two punch, with Norway being last year’s surprise packets, and Czech Republic always a danger despite a disappointing tournament in 2024.
GROUP B – SYDNEY
POLAND:
Hubert Hurkacz
Iga Swiatek
Kamil Majchrzak (Backup singles)
Maja Chwalinska (Backup singles)
Jan Zielinski (Doubles)
Alicja Rosolska (Doubles)
A genuine title contender, Poland will rarely even think about turning to anyone other than Hurkacz and Swiatek with the pair a proven combination and both quality players. No doubt if they have won both singles then Zielinski could be added to the doubles with Swiatek or with veteran Rosolska who put her hand up for an event at 39 years-old. In nearly any circumstance, Poland should jump out to a lead thanks to Swiatek.
Prediction: Win group / Title contender
CZECH REPUBLIC:
Tomas Machac
Karolina Muchova
Marek Gengel (Backup singles)
Gabriela Andrea Knutson (Backup singles)
Vendula Valdmannova (Backup singles)
Patrik Rikl (Doubles)
It is well known how dangerous Muchova can be – even for Swiatek – and Machac is no chump either. They should take care of Norway in a three-match tie, but whether or not they could do it against Poland is tough. Muchova is the key and will do doubles duty one would think, though it is great to see 17-year-old Valdmannova get her shot to train alongside a Top 10 player. Rikl the specialist doubles is a Top 100 talent who might be used ahead of Machac.
Prediction: Second in group / chance for wildcard
NORWAY:
Casper Ruud
Malene Helgo
Viktor Durasovic (Backup singles)
Ulrikke Eikeri (Backup singles)
The surprise group toppers from 2024, Ruud will need to carry the weight of his nation once again as the world number eight is the only player inside the Top 450 on either side. If he loses his singles it is game over for Norway – especially in this group – but if he can win, then it will be a case of which of Helgo or Eikeri step onto the doubles court with him. Durasovic essentially there to chill and only be needed if Ruud goes down with injury.
Prediction: Third in group
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