The Italian team leader after their second triumph in the Billie Jean King Cup: “This victory has a special flavor. And now we’re not stopping. We’re at a starting point, not a finishing line.”

Tathiana Garbin is a woman who defies the odds, both on and off the court. Having recovered from a rare disease, the captain led her girls to victory in the Billie Jean King Cup: not once, but twice.

Tathiana, how much of your personal experience went into this world title repeat?

“My personal and sporting experiences have become one and the same. The illness taught me to approach every day as if it were an important match: to focus on what I can control, accept what is beyond my control, and fight until the very last point. This victory confirms that determination and teamwork can turn an impossible mission into reality.”

What is the difference between the triumph in Malaga and the one in Shenzhen?

“And let’s not forget the 2023 final… They were very different finals. The first came in the midst of my illness, at a very difficult time in my personal life: it was a shock for me and for the girls. The second was our promise kept: we said we could do something extraordinary and we did it. This one has a special flavor because it confirms our inner strength and the growth of the team, built step by step.”

Was there a moment during the week when you felt that the feat was possible?

“We tried to approach every challenge as if it were the final. Certainly, however, the semifinal against Ukraine was the real turning point: we were facing a Svitolina in great form and a highly motivated Kostyuk, driven by the profound significance that challenge had for them and their country at this historic moment. There were emotions on the court that could have made us falter, but the girls were exceptional in transforming that pressure into energy. Winning that doubles match gave us the certainty that the dream was truly within our reach.”

Elisabetta Cocciaretto finally found herself. How did you see it?

“After her defeat to Kostyuk, who had played the perfect match, Elisabetta took to the court with a very clear game plan, always on the attack. This attitude is essential against rivals like Navarro. Seeing her so focused, determined, and capable of playing her best tennis is one of the best gifts of this season.“

Jasmine Paolini and Sara Errani. Did their experience make the difference?

”Jasmine, with her comebacks, taught us that we must never stop believing, even when all seems lost. Sara, on the other hand, has been our rock and puts a lot of effort into helping the younger players in the group. Together, they embody two complementary sides of our identity: emotional drive and solidity, enthusiasm and calm.”

Tyra Grant has had an exhilarating experience that will serve her well in the future.

“She is a young girl, full of energy and eager to learn. These experiences will help her grow tremendously. I am confident that, together with the Technical Sector and the Training Institute, we will be able to expand the roster even further.”

Lucia Bronzetti was a key player in the 2024 final, but she had some problems this year.

“She was on the sidelines, providing energy and presence. Everyone did their part to win this Cup, and even those who didn’t play were decisive.”

And now?

“And now we’re not stopping. We’re at a starting point, not a finishing point. We want to consolidate and create a system that helps all players grow, even those at the beginning of their journey.”

In April, the race for the hat trick begins… Maybe in Italy?

“Playing with the warmth and energy of our fans, setting an example for girls who dream of getting here. Yes, playing at home would be a real gift.” A well-deserved one.