Defending champions Italy will begin their quest for a historic third consecutive Billie Jean King Cup title at home against Japan. The draw, held today in London, marks the beginning of a significant new era for the tournament as it transitions into a revamped, streamlined format.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!A New Format: What’s Changing?
- Home-and-Away Drama: Instead of neutral-site group stages, the qualifiers return to a traditional knockout format played on home soil.
- The “Doubles-First” Shift: In a major tactical change, the doubles match will now be played first on Day 2, followed by the reverse singles. This ensures the doubles specialists—often the unsung heroes of the Cup—always get their time in the spotlight.
- Road to the Finals: Only seven nations will emerge from these qualifiers to join hosts China in the elite 8-team Finals in September.
The Matchup: Italy vs. Japan
- Italy’s Momentum: Having defeated the USA in the 2025 Finals, the Italian squad enters as the heavy favorite. With stars like Jasmine Paolini leading the charge, they are looking to cement their status as a modern tennis dynasty.
- Japan’s Challenge: Japan enters the tie as underdogs but remains a dangerous opponent, particularly if Naomi Osaka or their rising young stars find their rhythm on the Italian clay or hard courts.
- When and Where: The tie will take place from April 10–11, 2026, at a venue in Italy to be announced shortly.
Full 2026 Qualifier Draw
| Home Team | Away Team |
| Italy | Japan |
| Australia | Great Britain |
| USA | Belgium |
| Czechia | Switzerland |
| Poland | Ukraine |
| Canada | Germany |
| Slovakia | Spain |
