In an unforgettable display of resilience and nerve, Flavio Cobolli propelled Italy into the Davis Cup final after defeating Belgium’s Zizou Bergs in one of the most dramatic matches in recent tennis history. Cobolli’s heroic performance included saving seven match points and winning a 32-point tie-break in the decisive third set, a contest that lasted over three hours.

Cobolli, 23, tore off his T-shirt in celebration as a euphoric crowd erupted at Bologna’s SuperTennis Arena, marking a moment that will be remembered in Davis Cup history. The final scoreline read 6-3, 6-7 (5-7), 7-6 (17-15). This tie-break now ranks as the sixth-longest in the 125-year history of the Davis Cup, highlighting Cobolli’s composure under immense pressure.

Italy, two-time defending champions, will face either Spain or Germany in the upcoming final.

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Cobolli’s Emotional Victory and Sportsmanship

After the match, Cobolli showed tremendous sportsmanship, consoling Bergs, who sat on the Belgium team bench visibly distraught. In his on-court interview, Cobolli, currently ranked world number 22, reflected on the magnitude of the victory:

“It’s really tough to put into words. We fought hard for our countries, and in the end, I realized my dream. This is one of the best days of my life. I played for the supporters, my team, my family, and for myself.”

Italy team captain Filippo Volandri praised Cobolli’s determination, describing the match as a mix of “5% tactics and 95% heart.” Volandri added:

“In my five years as captain, I’ve never seen anything like that. Cobolli gave everything. Tonight we celebrate, and then we focus on the final.”

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Italy’s Road to a Historic Third Consecutive Davis Cup Final

Italy’s journey to the semi-finals began with Matteo Berrettini delivering a commanding victory over Raphael Collignon in straight sets, setting the tone for the home team. Cobolli’s heroics ensured Italy became the first nation since Australia in 2001 to reach three consecutive Davis Cup finals.

Despite the absence of Italy’s top two singles players, Jannik Sinner (world number two) and Lorenzo Musetti (ranked eighth), the Italian team remains strong. Their mission: to become the first country in 53 years to win three straight Davis Cup titles, a feat last achieved by the United States in 1972.

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Match Highlights: Cobolli vs Bergs

The quarter-final match in Bologna was nothing short of spectacular. Cobolli displayed nerves of steel by saving four break points in the decisive set and eventually withstood seven match points from Bergs. The intense match swung back and forth, with both players maintaining high-level performance despite the pressure and a vociferous crowd.

Cobolli finally sealed victory when Bergs hit a wide shot on Cobolli’s seventh match point, allowing the Italian to serve out the win. Celebrations erupted as Cobolli joined Berrettini and Volandri courtside, reveling in a historic moment for Italian tennis.

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Berrettini’s Stellar Performance

Berrettini, ranked 56th in the world, had set the foundation for Italy’s success by defeating Collignon 6-3, 6-4 in 90 minutes. His performance included key breaks and a stunning cross-court forehand that shut down Belgium’s momentum. Despite a brief moment when Collignon leveled the score at 2-2 in the second set, Berrettini regained control to secure his eighth straight Davis Cup win, further solidifying Italy’s dominance on home soil.

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Italy’s Davis Cup Legacy

With Cobolli and Berrettini leading the charge, Italy now has a chance to make history. Winning three consecutive Davis Cup titles would mark the longest streak since the United States’ four-year reign ending in 1972, cementing Italy as a powerhouse in men’s tennis.

Even in the absence of Sinner and Musetti, the Italian squad has showcased exceptional depth, teamwork, and determination. The upcoming final promises another thrilling chapter in Italy’s Davis Cup story, with fans across the nation eagerly anticipating the showdown against Spain or Germany.