SYDNEY — Karolina Muchova turned on the type throughout a 6-2, 6-2 victory over fourth-ranked Jasmine Paolini on the United Cup on Friday to assist the Czech Republic safe a win over Italy and a semifinal spot in opposition to the US.
Muchova produced a “tweener” shot between her legs throughout a memorable trade within the first set — though she misplaced that time — in addition to an array of slices and different unconventional photographs.
Muchova improved to 5-0 in her profession in opposition to Paolini, who was a finalist on the French Open and Wimbledon final 12 months.
Tomas Machac then beat Flavio Cobolli 6-1, 6-2.
Muchova and Machac will subsequent face Individuals Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz, respectively.
Iga Swiatek’s Poland performs Kazakhstan in Saturday’s different semifinal of the combined staff occasion.
The United Cup is a warmup for the Australian Open, which begins Jan. 12.
