By Richard Pagliaro | Friday, April 10, 2026
Photo credit: United Cup Facebook
Belgium Poised for Billie Jean King Cup Finals
Belgium is close to securing a spot in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals after decisively defeating the United States team.
Kessler’s Retirement Locks in Belgium’s Advantage
Elise Mertens was at a standstill with McCartney Kessler at 7-6(3), 2-6, 3-3 when the 26-year-old American withdrew from their Billie Jean King Cup Qualifier due to a back injury.
Kessler had just taken a 3-2 lead in the crucial third set on the red clay at the Coretec Dome in Ostend, Belgium.
Medical Timeout Leads to Match Conclusion
During a service game at 3-all, 15-Love, Kessler strained her back while making a double fault. She visibly struggled, slowly returning to her seat with an evident grimace.
After requesting a medical timeout, an emotional Kessler made a quick return to the court but ultimately retired.
Mertens Reflects on the Match
“It’s unfortunate that she had to retire; we were having such a close match, and she was playing excellently,” Mertens commented during her on-court interview. “I really appreciated the support from the Belgian crowd, which fueled my performance.”
Kessler, currently ranked No. 48, had previously won against Mertens in their earlier two encounters.
Other Matches Impacting the Tie
Over the next two days, 14 nations will compete in seven home-and-away best-of-five match ties to secure a place in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Shenzhen, China, this September.
Hanne Vandewinkel started with a win, defeating world No. 16 Iva Jovic 7-6(3), 6-3, giving Belgium an initial 1-0 lead. Vandewinkel saved all break points faced and secured the only break in the second set.
Martens Sets the Stage for Tomorrow’s Matches
Following Kessler’s injury, if the USA manages to extend the tie to a decisive fifth match, either Hailey Baptiste or McNally may step in to compete.
“I’m thrilled to have been called up last week to join this team,” McNally expressed. “We’re all competing for something larger than ourselves this week, which is truly motivating.”
Current Match Standings
Belgium 2, United States 0
Schedule for Saturday (Starting at 8 a.m. ET)
Caty McNally/Nicole Melichar-Martinez (USA) vs. Greet Minnen/Magali Kempen (BEL)
Iva Jovic (USA) vs. Elise Mertens (BEL)
McCartney Kessler (USA) vs. Hanne Vandewinkel (BEL)
