Czech Republic and Slovenia Victorious in Billie Jean King Cup Openers; Record $9.6 Million Prize Money Announced

Dominant performance by Czech Republic over defending champion Switzerland and Slovenia's triumph over Australia in initial matches; equal prize money reaffirmed for men's and women's tournaments.

The Billie Jean King Cup finals began with victories for the Czech Republic and Slovenia. The Czech Republic team won 3-0 against last year's champion, Switzerland, in Group A, while Slovenia triumphed 2-1 over Australia in Group B.
Key players for the Czech Republic included Linda Noskova who achieved an opening victory against Switzerland's Celine Naef 7-6 (2), 4-6, 6-4. Marie Bouzkova then secured the team win by beating Switzerland's Viktorija Golubic 6-4, 6-4.
In Slovenia's match against Australia, Kaja Juvan defeated Ajla Tomljanovic 6-4, 6-1, and Tamara Zidansek won over Daria Saville 6-1, 6-4. Australia got a consolation win in doubles with Kimberly Birrell and Storm Hunter beating Veronika Erjavec and Ela Nala Milic 7-5, 6-7 (2), 10-5.
The International Tennis Federation announced a record $9.6 million in prize money for the Billie Jean King Cup finals, which matches the prize level of the Davis Cup Finals for men. The champions will receive $2.4 million.
The tournament boasts a record 134 nations participating, whittled down to the final 12 teams. Defending champion Switzerland is facing stiff competition with high stakes as the runner-up team will earn $1.44 million while each losing semifinalist will get $960,000.