Brilliant Britain Shock Australia to Reach Billie Jean King Cup Finals
Great Britain delivered a sensational performance in Melbourne, overcoming the odds to defeat Australia in the Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers—and book their place in the Finals in style.
Heading into the tie, GB faced a major challenge. With four of the nation’s top-ranked players unavailable, Captain Anne Keothavong was forced to field a young and relatively inexperienced team against a strong Australian side.
But what followed was nothing short of inspirational.
A Fearless Young Team
Led by belief and team spirit, the British line-up featured:
- Harriet Dart (World ranking 173)
- Katie Swan (262)
- Mika Stojsavljevic (world ranking 275)
- Jodie Burrage (489)
Up against them? An Australian team boasting two Top 100 singles players and a Top 20 doubles pairing.
On paper, it looked like a mismatch. On court, it became a statement.
Singles: Rising Star Sets The Tone
Mika Stojsavljevic, the 2024 US Open junior champion, was handed the responsibility of opening the tie—and rose to the occasion brilliantly.
Showing composure beyond her years, she defeated the in-form Talia Gibson 7-6, 7-5—marking the biggest win of her career.
That spark ignited the team.
Harriet Dart followed with a gritty, come-from-behind victory over world No.80 Kimberly Birrell, battling to a 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 win.
Suddenly, GB were 2–0 up—and dreaming.
Doubles: Sealing a Famous Victory
With momentum on their side, Dart teamed up with Jodie Burrage in a decisive doubles clash.
Facing top-20 duo Storm Hunter and Ellen Perez, the British pair showed resilience and class—recovering from an early setback to win 6-3, 6-4.
Tie over. Statement made.
A Team in the Rise
This victory sends Great Britain through to the Finals for the fourth time in five years—having already reached the semi-finals three times in that period.
A team once seen as underdogs is now firmly among the elite.
A fantastic performance.
Captain’s Pride
“We’re all just overjoyed,” said Captain Anne Keothavong. “It’s been an unbelievable week here in Melbourne. The tennis that was played yesterday and today was fantastic – I couldn’t ask for anything more of my team. I’m so proud of them.
“It’s incredibly rewarding. I have to credit the players on my team for going out there and being able to execute the way they did, holding their nerve the way they did and perform the way they did.
“We’ve travelled to the other side of the world and it’s a big ask of the players at this point in the year. On paper the Aussies were favourites – even though yesterday was amazing for us being 2-0 up, I didn’t think we could leave anything to chance today.
“When you have players like I’ve had this week and they come together the way they did, it feels magic.”
“That’s always the ultimate goal (to win it),” Keothavong added. “I know we have the players and strength and depth in the UK to do something special in this competition.
“I’ve felt that for some time but sometimes you need a bit of luck for everything to come together. When we head to the Finals, whoever is on my team, we aren’t there to make up the numbers that’s for sure.
Eyes on Shenzen
Great Britain now head to Shenzhen, China, where they will compete for the title against the world’s best from 21 September.
The belief? Growing.
The momentum? Undeniable.
They will compete with the other six tie winners from the Qualifiers as well as host nation China for the prize of becoming Billie Jean King Cup champions.
Middlesex Pride at the Heart of Success
For Middlesex Tennis, this victory carries even greater significance.
With two players in the team and Captain Keothavong herself a Middlesex product, this success is a powerful reflection of the county’s player development pathway.
Phil Veasey, Middlesex Tennis Chair commented:.
“Middlesex Tennis is proud of its rich tradition of supporting our talented young people to excel on court at the highest performance levels of our great sport. To have both singles players and the team coach all home grown in north and west London is a unique moment. It’s fitting testament to the dedication and hard work of our venues, coaches, parents, and officials who have given so much to make this happen for Anne, Harriet, and Mika!”
Andrew Lewandowski, General Manager at Middlesex Tennis, added
“The performances of Harriet and Mika are testament to the great work going on at Middlesex Tennis. And the achievements of Anne Keothavong, a former County player for Middlesex Tennis, cannot be understated.
“Harriet and Mika’s performances highlight the strength of our system. Mika is just beginning her journey, and our Performance Foundation is proud to support her.”
Building for the Future
“Middlesex Tennis continues to invest in the next generation, supporting players across all pathways—including:
Lily Mills (Learning Disability tennis)
Naqi Rizvi (Visually Impaired tennis)Both recently competed at the Australian Open, showcasing the breadth of talent being developed.
The momentum doesn’t stop there—recent international training camps, including a trip to the Angie Kerber Tennis Academy, underline a clear ambition:
To produce players ready for the global stage.”
