'Today wasn't our day' - Jessica Pegula expresses disappointment following United States' Billie Jean King Cup final loss to Italy

The 2025 Billie Jean King Cup saw Italy successfully defend they title they won at last year's edition, this time defeating the United States in the final to claim the title. Following the tie, several members of the American team shared their dismay at losing such an important fixture.

Italy kicked off proceedings with the first win, as Elisabetta Cocciaretto got the best of 17th ranked American Ema Navarro in the first singles rubber. This meant World No.7 Jessica Pegula would have to defeat top-ranked Italian Jasmine Paolini in order to force a deciding doubles match.

However, it was Paolini who prevailed, recording a 6-4 6-2 victory over Pegula to give Italy their second straight Billie Jean King Cup title. This was Paolini's first victory in the last five matches against Pegula, with the American having won each previous encounter in straight sets.

A victory for Italy ensured the United States would have to wait another year if they hoped to capture their 19th Billie Jean King Cup title. With former World No.1 Lindsay Davenport acting as Team Captain, the United States were favorites to lift the international trophy but fell just short at the last hurdle.

Pegula admits the United States had a bad day but credits Italy for their triumph

"Today wasn't our day,“ said the former World No.2. "But we still have to be happy to have reached the final. The 4-4 game in the first set tipped the match in Jasmine's favor, and she then played great tennis in the second set as well. I felt almost in control at the start, but then things didn't go the way I hoped."

Navarro, who lost in straight sets in the first match of the tie, agreed with Pegula's sentiments on having a bad day. However, the World No.17 expressed her joy at playing alongside her compatriots.

"Today was tough,” said Navarro. “I didn't play my best tennis, but I had a fantastic week with a great team. It's a privilege to wear the United States jersey. Every time I step on court, I feel incredible, and I'm grateful for this opportunity.
"Credit must go to Cocciaretto, who put a lot of pressure on me from the baseline, making me feel uneasy. Elisabetta also served very well, completing her aggressive game plan without too many errors, while I know I didn't do enough."

Team captain Davenport heaped praise on her countrywomen for their superb performance for the duration of the tournament. The former US Open champion also had some kind words for their Italian counterparts.

"This event was extraordinary, we had so much fun playing in Shenzhen," said Davenport. "We're disappointed with the outcome of the final, but we have to remember where we started: if Navarro hadn't beaten Putintseva three days ago, who knows what would have happened.
"Congratulations to the Italian girls because they played so well: for our part, we hope to have another chance next year. We all tried to give our best, but it wasn't enough: we were focused on the goal, but sometimes we just don't score."