Poland Stuns Netherlands to Set Up Australia Showdown in United Cup Quarterfinals

Match context

Poland booked its spot in the United Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday as Hubert Hurkacz defeated Tallon Griekspoor 6-3, 7-6, before Iga Swiatek pushed the score further with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Suzan Liemens.

Poland entered the day knowing a single win would seal qualification, and Hurkacz wasted no time; he fired 20 booming serves, never facing a single break point throughout the match.

Prior to this event, Hurkacz had not played since June 2025 due to a knee injury that required surgery, but the former world No. 6 began the new season strong, winning two straight sets over world No. 3 Alexander Zverev and then Griekspoor.

Post-match reflections

Hurkacz spoke to the tournament’s official site, saying he wasn’t sure how he would start the season after seven months away. Training and real-match intensity feel very different, but I’m positively surprised and thrilled with this performance. The long absence gives you a different perspective and helps me stay calm in tough moments.

Swiatek, the former world No. 1, did not allow Liemens a chance at a surprise; after the first set was tied at 3-3, Swiatek surged to win nine of the last 11 games.

Swiatek said after the match: 'I’m happy I found a way to be tougher in the middle of the first set. I felt greater control on the ball, and this win gives us big confidence going into the quarterfinals.'

The Polish doubles duo Katarzyna Kawaa and Jan Zielinski completed a clean sweep in the mixed doubles, defeating David Bell and Demi Shors 6-3, 3-6, 10-4.

Poland will face the host nation Australia in Sydney on Friday evening in a highly anticipated showdown. The Polish team are aiming for their first United Cup title after finishing runner-up in the two previous editions.

Punchline 1: If Hurkacz keeps serving like that, the ball might start charging admission.

Punchline 2: And if Swiatek keeps backhanding with such precision, even the coffee breaks will start taking notes.