2024-11-17 20:29:00
Before a ball was hit on the Costa del Sol, Keothavong was not afraid to talk up her team’s chances of upsetting the odds and lifting the trophy on Wednesday.
While Keothavong’s team reached the semi-finals on home turf in Glasgow in 2022, there is a different level of belief given the firepower Britain possess.
Raducanu and Boulter will be favourites to win their singles matches in the semi-final, but Slovakia are not to be underestimated after reaching the last four for the first time since being crowned champions in 2002.
The United States, albeit shorn of their leading stars Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula, were their first victims before Australia were brushed aside on Sunday.
Viktoria Hruncakova, ranked 241st in the world, won 7-5 6-7 6-3 against Kimberly Birrell before 43rd-ranked Rebecca Sramkova crushed Ajla Tomljanovic 6-1 6-2.
If Britain beat Slovakia, their final opponents will be Poland or Italy – showing why they were among most people’s pre-tournament favourites.
That is where Britain will face players of greater repute.
Poland have the tournament’s biggest threat in five-time major champion Iga Swiatek, while Italy are led by world number four Jasmine Paolini, with both having also provided winning contributions in the doubles.
“I definitely wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe we could win the tournament,” said Boulter.
“We’ve always got a great chance. We’re going to keep believing, keep trusting it, and keep enjoying it.
“I don’t think there is any pressure. We’re just enjoying ourselves.”
1731905310
#win #Boulter #Raducanu #put #BJK #Cup #semis
How important is team camaraderie in overcoming challenges during high-pressure moments in a tournament?
**Interview with Anne Keothavong: Team Spirit and Championship Hopes**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Anne. As we look ahead to the upcoming competition on the Costa del Sol, your confidence in your team’s potential is palpable. What factors contribute to this heightened belief compared to previous tournaments?
**Anne Keothavong:** Thank you for having me! I think there are several elements at play this time around. Firstly, the experience gained from our semi-final appearance in Glasgow in 2022 has really helped us grow as a team. We’ve learned so much about our strengths and weaknesses, and that knowledge is invaluable.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of your team’s growth, how do you feel your players have evolved since last year’s competition?
**Anne Keothavong:** I’m incredibly proud of how much my players have developed both individually and collectively. They’ve trained hard, shown immense dedication, and really bonded as a unit. That camaraderie is essential and has built a strong sense of belief amongst the team that we can achieve great things here.
**Interviewer:** That’s wonderful to hear! What do you see as the biggest challenges ahead of you in this tournament?
**Anne Keothavong:** The competition will undoubtedly be tough. Every team is bringing their best, and we have to stay focused and disciplined. We’ll need to manage the pressure, especially in critical moments, but I believe we’re ready to face whatever comes our way.
**Interviewer:** It’s clear you’re optimistic about your team’s chances. What would it mean for you and your team to lift the trophy?
**Anne Keothavong:** It would be an absolute dream come true. Winning would not only validate our efforts and sacrifices but also inspire future generations of players. We’re determined to make our mark, and I’m excited to see how far we can go!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Anne. Best of luck to you and the team in the tournament!
**Anne Keothavong:** Thank you! We appreciate the support!