US advances to Billie Jean King Cup semifinals

On Thursday, the U.S. tennis team clinched a 2-1 victory over Kazakhstan, earning a spot in the Billie Jean King Cup semifinals for the first time since 2021, according to ESPN.

Emma Navarro opened the day with a tight win over Yulia Putintseva, prevailing 7-5, 2-6, 7-6 (6). However, Elena Rybakina responded by beating Jessica Pegula 6-4, 6-1 to level the tie. In the decisive doubles match, Pegula and Taylor Townsend then secured the U.S. victory, defeating Putintseva and Rybakina 6-2, 7-6 (1).

Saturday’s semifinal will see the Americans take on either Japan or Britain. Meanwhile, Ukraine faces defending champion Italy on Friday, following quarterfinal triumphs from both teams.

The Billie Jean King Cup, formerly known as the Fed Cup, is the premier women’s team tennis competition. The U.S., an 18-time champion, last won the title in 2017.

Earlier this week, Townsend faced backlash on Chinese social media after criticizing local food in Shenzhen. She later deleted the posts and apologized, saying her remarks did not reflect her overall experience in China.