Italy Defeats Japan 2-1 in Billie Jean King Cup

Italy defeated Japan 2-1 in the Billie Jean King Cup quarterfinals, securing their place in the semifinals. Ena Shibahara initially gave Japan the lead with a comeback victory over Elisabetta Cocciaretto, but Italy's Jasmine Paolini responded by defeating Moyuka Uchijima 6-3, 6-4 in singles. Paolini, ranked fourth in the world, then teamed with Sara Errani to win the decisive doubles match against Shuko Aoyama and Eri Hozumi, clinching the tie with a score of 6-3, 6-4. Italy, who were last year's runners-up, will face either Poland or the Czech Republic in the semifinals. This win marks Italy's continued success in the tournament, where they have previously claimed the championship title four times.