United Cup: German Wins first title with hard fought victory over Poland

Germany stunned Poland 2-1 in Sydney to win the United Cup trophy in the wee hours of Monday morning, capping an incredible comeback.

Hubert Hurkacz and WTA No. 1 Iga Swiatek were defeated 6-4, 5-7, 10-4 for all the glory at 12:45 a.m. by Alexander Zverev and Laura Siegemund at Ken Rosewall Arena after Zverev saved two championship points against Hurkacz.

Germany fought the entire competition at a disadvantage. Based on the percentage of games won, the nation just made it into the quarterfinals after finishing second in Group D. In the end, Siegemund and Zverev lifted the title after winning crucial mixed doubles matches on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

“It’s been absolutely amazing. It’s been a pleasure and it’s been absolutely so much fun for everybody to be part of this team, especially for me,” Zverev told his teammates during the trophy ceremony. “I really thank you guys for being part of this. I really couldn’t be happier be sharing this trophy with anybody than you guys.”

“Congrats to Team Poland, amazing run. It was a matter of millimetres today for you guys to be the champions,” Zverev said. “I know it is upsetting, but you guys all have I think an amazing season ahead. Hubi and Iga, especially I think. Iga, congratulations on the MVP. I said it before in an interview, I think having you on a team is like having a cheat code on a video game, so it’s amazing what you’ve been doing for the past few years and I think you have a big season ahead.”