Belarus must beat the USA in the Fed Cup final (11-12) November live on DAZN) as expected without Victoria Azarenka. The former world number one in the rankings continues to be in custody of ex-partner Billy McKeague.
The hoped-for turnaround failed to materialize. Victoria Azarenka will not be available to her home country in the first Fed Cup final of Belarusian tennis history. With Aryna Sabalenka, Aliaksandra Sasnovich, Vera Lapko and Lidziya Marozava, captain Eduard Dubrou is sending an internationally largely unknown selection to the final against the favourite American women.
Dubrou explained in an interview with PressBall why he has to give up his top player:”Azarenka hasn’t played since July and has lost a lot of weight. I don’t know what her physical condition she’s in right now. I understand your difficult personal situation. I’m particularly concerned about her mental state. Under the circumstances, I couldn’t invite Vika.”
For Team USA in Minsk, the first Fed Cup title in 17 years is at stake. The 18-time champion will be led by Zhuhai finalist Coco Vandeweghe and US Open Champion Sloane Stephens. Team boss Kathy Rinaldi Shelby Rogers and Alison Riske have also placed their trust in the team. Madison Keys (hand joint injury) and Singapore finalist Venus Williams (different tournament planning) were not considered.