SYDNEY: Poland finally ended their wait for United Cup glory on Sunday, defeating Switzerland 2-1 in a thrilling final in Sydney. The victory came after two previous title-round heartbreaks, as the team converted years of strong performances into a long-awaited triumph in the season-opening mixed-team tennis event.
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Iga Swiatek gave Poland an early setback by losing 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 to Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic in the women’s singles. Swiatek, however, praised the team’s support and credited a collective effort for keeping spirits high despite her challenging match.
POLAND’S TIME AT THE UNITED CUP 🏆🇵🇱
In their third United Cup final, Team Poland fight back to defeat Switzerland to claim their first title!#UnitedCup pic.twitter.com/taqhYbHT1d
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) January 11, 2026
Hubert Hurkacz then bounced back impressively in the men’s singles, defeating veteran Stan Wawrinka 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to level the tie at 1-1. Hurkacz, returning from a seven-month injury layoff, served 18 aces and saved eight out of nine break points, demonstrating composure and skill against the three-time Grand Slam champion in what could be Wawrinka’s final season.
The title was ultimately decided in the mixed doubles, where Katarzyna Kawa and Jan Zielinski beat Bencic and Jakub Paul 6-4, 6-3. Their experience and teamwork proved decisive, triggering jubilant celebrations as Poland lifted their first United Cup trophy. Swiatek called the win “third time lucky” and lauded her teammates for their belief and support throughout the tournament.
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The victory capped an impressive campaign for Poland, which included a semi-final win over defending champions the United States. The momentum from the United Cup is expected to carry Hurkacz into his Australian Open singles campaign, beginning January 18. The tournament also highlighted the depth of Poland’s team, combining young talent with veteran experience to achieve historic success in the mixed-team format.