Overview
- Raphael Collignon defeated Corentin Moutet 2-6, 7-5, 7-5 in Bologna, breaking in the final game after capitalizing on late errors to put Belgium up 1-0.
- The result marked a rankings upset with No. 86 Collignon overcoming No. 35 Moutet, with Zizou Bergs facing Arthur Rinderknech next in a best-of-three tie that includes a deciding doubles if needed.
- France, a 10-time champion, had won its last four meetings with Belgium, including the 2017 final, underscoring the significance of the opening rubber.
- World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz withdrew from Spain’s team with a hamstring injury, leaving Alexander Zverev as the only top-10 singles player in this year’s Finals.
- ITF chief executive Ross Hutchins plans discussions with leading players on the event’s future, as figures such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have expressed support for a potential biennial format; the winner will face Italy or Austria on Friday.