Poland captured their first-ever United Cup title with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Switzerland, completing a dramatic comeback after an opening singles loss for world number two Iga Swiatek.

The inaugural mixed-team tennis event saw Poland, led by Swiatek and Hubert Hurkacz, finally lift the trophy after heartbreak in the 2024 and 2025 finals against Germany and the United States.

Switzerland Takes Early Lead

Switzerland started strongly as former Olympic champion Belinda Bencic delivered a commanding performance in the women’s singles, defeating Swiatek 3-6 6-0 6-3. Bencic’s victory gave the Swiss team an early advantage in Sydney, putting pressure on Poland to respond.

Hurkacz Levels for Poland

Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz answered back in thrilling fashion, winning a three-set encounter against Swiss veteran Stan Wawrinka 6-3 3-6 6-3. Hurkacz, returning to competition after seven months out with injury, maintained his strong form and kept Poland’s title hopes alive.

“Even though my singles performance wasn’t perfect, you really got my spirits up and each of you believed to the end,” said Swiatek after the win, praising the team effort.

Mixed Doubles Decides the Title

The championship was ultimately decided in the mixed doubles, where Polish duo Katarzyna Kawa and Jan Zielinski maintained their perfect United Cup record. They defeated Bencic and Jakub Paul 6-4 6-3, clinching the decisive point and securing a 2-1 overall victory for Poland.

Kawa and Zielinski had already won a critical deciding rubber in the semi-finals against the American pair of Coco Gauff and Christian Harrison, demonstrating their consistency under pressure.

“Finally we have made it – third-time lucky… I mean, not lucky because we worked really hard,” Swiatek said.

Key Performances

• Iga Swiatek (Poland): Won three of five singles matches in the tournament.
• Hubert Hurkacz (Poland): Won four of five matches, including the crucial final singles rubber.
• Katarzyna Kawa & Jan Zielinski (Poland): Undefeated in mixed doubles, pivotal in Poland’s United Cup triumph.
• Belinda Bencic (Switzerland): Won both her singles matches in the final but couldn’t secure the title for Switzerland.

Poland’s Journey to the Title

After finishing as runners-up in the first two editions of the United Cup, Poland entered 2026 determined to claim the trophy. The team’s blend of experience, youth, and depth in mixed doubles proved decisive, showing the strength of Poland’s tennis program on a global stage.

The victory in Sydney sets up an exciting 2026 season for both Swiatek and Hurkacz as they head into the Australian Open, carrying confidence from their team success.