A participation by top-ranked Serena Williams will certainly bolster the chances of the United States team to cruise past defending champion Italy in their first round rubber in February 2014. This was stated by the US Fed Cup captain Mary Joe Fernandez.
The US vs Italy Fed Cup tie will take place at the Public Auditorium in Cleveland on February 8 and 9. This will be the fourth meeting between these tennis powerhouse in the past six years with Italy winning their past three meetings including their February 2013 victory against the US 3-2. Overall, the US has a 9-3 series advantage over Italy but has not won against the European team since 2003.
“Well, from past experiences, you know when Serena’s not there, Italy has been the favorite,” Fernandez said. “They have Sara Errani in the Top 10. Roberta Vinci is bordering the Top 10. Number one doubles [team] in the world. Flavia Pennetta and Francesca Schiavone, a couple juniors behind them, Karin Knapp and [Camilla] Giorgi, who played well at the U.S. Open. So they’re very well rounded, the Italian team. They’re very experienced as well as different game styles. They’re very capable of altering who needs to play when and against which opponent.
“It’s been a big challenge for us for the last five years when we play against the Italian teams. Obviously, if Serena plays, which I’m counting on her playing, then we become the favorites.”
Williams missed the February 2013 loss to Italy but committed to play at the playoff event versus Sweden back in April to retain the team’s place in the World Group. Her older sister Venus also participated during the tie.
Also expected to participate this coming February are number 12 Sloane Stephens, 28th-ranked Jamie Hampton, 38th-ranked Madison Keys, 47th-ranked Venus Williams and 48th-ranked Bethanie Mattek-Sands.
