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Alizé Cornet Named Captain of France’s Billie Jean King Cup Team

The FFT hands the recently retired former world No. 11 a mandate to rebuild a relegated squad for a long‑term return to the elite.

Overview

  • The French Tennis Federation announced the appointment on Sunday, tasking Cornet with leading the Bleues back after their 2024 drop to the second tier.
  • France cannot reenter the top level before 2027 following failure to reach the April 2025 promotion play-offs.
  • Cornet will operate under the FFT’s director of high performance, former ATP pro Ivan Ljubicic.
  • She was selected over Pauline Parmentier and Sophie Amiach, with Amélie Mauresmo also on the federation’s shortlist, as the FFT cited her career, commitment, motivation and availability.
  • Cornet succeeds Julien Benneteau after public disputes over player commitment, arrives as a 35-year-old six-time WTA champion who ended a brief 2025 comeback in September, and pledges to build a team spirit rooted in demand, solidarity and pride in the blue jersey.