TennisThe Belgian national team lost its first match in the group stage in the United Cup in Perth, Australia, 3-2 against Bulgaria. In the decisive mixed doubles match, Elise Mertens and David Goffin lost 1-6, 7-6 (7/5) and 10/6 in a tie-break to Isabella Shinnikova and Alexander Lazarov.
look. Elise Mertens previously gave Belgium a 2-1 lead
Earlier on New Year’s Day, Zizou Berges (ATP 129) lost in two sets to Dimitar Kuzmanov (ATP 196): 6-2, 6-0. Not long ago, Elise Mertens (WTA 29) beat Jirjana Topalova (WTA 323) 2-1. On Saturday, Alison Van Uytvanck (WTA 72) already had a 6-1 3-6 6-3 win over Isabella Shinnikova (WTA 381), but David Goffin (ATP 53) had to drop 6-4 7-5 for Grigor Dimitrov ( ATP 28).
For the Belgians, this was their first encounter in Group A. Bulgaria has already suffered 4-1 defeats to Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas (ATP 4) and Maria Sakkari (WTA 6), the Belgians’ opponents on Monday and Tuesday. The six group winners will play for a place in the semi-finals. Of the three losers of those qualifiers, the team that performed best in the group stage is also selected to the Final Four.
Unlimited free access to Showbytes? Which can!
Log in or create an account and never miss a thing from the stars.
“Subtly charming internet specialist. Avid writer. Friendly alcohol guru. Music ninja. Devoted social media fanatic.”
More Stories
End of Vuelta ordeal: Belgian hope Lennert van Eetvelt out of Tour
This was a powerful opening ceremony for the Paralympics, steeped in symbolism and French charm.
Mathias Delorg helps KAA Gent reach sixth straight European group stage