PHOTOS: Koala selfies for FAA & Mboko, Osaka & Raducanu spot quokkas, Ruud catches waves ahead of United Cup

Across three editions, the United Cup has established itself as one of the most compelling ways to kick off the tennis season, blending elite competition, national pride, and must-watch mixed-team drama.

From Coco Gauff’s statement-making win over Iga Swiatek in a title-clinching performance to finals decided by the finest of margins, the team tournament has already delivered moments that feel etched into the sport’s modern history.

As the world’s top players prepare to return for the upcoming United Cup, fans can expect more of the same — high-stakes clashes, unexpected heroes, and matches that set the tone for the season ahead. Before the first ball is struck, we look back at three of the most memorable United Cup matches to date—and why this year’s edition is appointment viewing.

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MATCH POINT: At United Cup, Coco Gauff earns second straight win over Iga Swiatek

Coco Gauff v. Iga Swiatek — 2025 Final

USA v. Poland

Coco Gauff came out swinging at the 2025 United Cup, making a major statement as she defeated Iga Swiatek 6-4, 6-4 to open the final.

The win delivered Team USA a crucial first point against Poland, before Taylor Fritz went on to clinch the title for the Americans—their second United Cup crown.

It also marked Gauff’s second straight victory over Swiatek and capped off a flawless week in which the American didn’t lose a match or drop a set.

🗣️ “I think just confidence. I have the belief that I’m one of the best players in the world, and when I play good tennis it’s hard to beat me. Today I think I played great tennis.” — Gauff

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Djokovic/Danilovic v.

Zhang/Zheng — 2024 Group E

Serbia v. China

Novak Djokovic and Olga Danilovic rang in 2024 on a winning note, edging China in a dramatic, down-to-the-wire United Cup tie.

The Serbian duo defeated Zhang Zhizhen and Zheng Qinwen 6-4, 1-6, 10-6 just minutes before midnight, sealing a 2-1 victory for Serbia. Djokovic also earned a singles win over Zhang earlier in the tie.

🗣️ “This was on my No. 1 bucket list, to play with Novak and to win. I’m so happy. Thanks to everyone for staying and being with us here on New Year’s Eve. This was an incredible match, I know I gave my all and I’m so happy to finish 2023 like this.” — Danilovic

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Alexander Zverev teamed up with Laura Siegemund to seal Germany’s 2024 United Cup victory.

Alexander Zverev v. Hubert Hurkacz — 2024 Final

Germany v. Poland

Germany battled back from the brink in a thrilling 2024 final, led by Alexander Zverev’s heroics against Hubert Hurkacz.

The team was staring at heartbreak after then-world No. 1 Iga Swiatek routed former No. 1 Angelique Kerber 6-0, 6-3. Zverev then found himself trailing 7-6 (3), 6-6 (6-4) in the second-set tiebreak against Hurkacz.

WATCH: Alexander Zverev saves two championship points, then tops Hubert Hurkacz to keep Germany's United Cup hopes alive

Saving both match points—including one forehand winner that clipped the line by mere millimeters—Zverev stole the second set and eventually prevailed 6-7 (3), 7-6 (6), 6-4. He later returned to court alongside Laura Siegemund to clinch Germany’s first United Cup title with a mixed doubles win.

🗣️ “I have absolutely no idea (how I won)… I saved a match point hitting a passing shot this much on the line. This is how tennis goes sometimes. You win and lose by millimeters and today I was lucky enough in a way.” — Zverev

📲🖥️ Stream the 2026 United Cup on the Tennis Channel App!