Matteo Berrettini has defeated world No.3 Casper Ruud to book Italy’s spot in Brisbane’s city United Cup final.
The world No.16, who lost in the semi-finals of last year’s Australian Open to eventual champion Rafael Nadal, used his big serve to dominate the Norwegian in a 6-4 6-4 win on Tuesday.
Berrettini hit 10 aces and won 88 per cent of points (35 of 40) when landing his first serve to move to 2-0 after his tournament-opening defeat of Brazilian Thiago Monteiro.
His victory in 86 minutes put Italy up 3-0 against Norway, which was good enough for top spot in their group with two matches remaining in their tie.
Italy will play either Poland or Switzerland – who are locked at 1-1 ahead of Tuesday’s clash between Hubert Hurkacz and Stan Wawrinka – in Wednesday’s city final at Pat Rafter Arena.
In Sydney, Jessica Pegula eased past Germany’s Laura Siegemund 6-3 6-2 to clinch the tie 3-0 in a dead rubber. The United States had already booked their city final berth with Great Britain on Monday.
In Perth, Greece need one win from their final three matches against Belgium to make the city final.
The winner of the clash between France and Croatia will advance as the other Perth finalist, with Croatia leading 2-0 after Monday’s results.
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