BILLIE JEAN KING CUP.. By Emiliano Naftali
The world number 5, Jessica Pegula, defeated Hanne Vandewinkel 6-2 6-0 in 51 minutes of play, securing her ticket to the Women’s Tennis World Cup Finals in Seville.

On a beautiful sunny day in Orlando, Pegula barely broke a sweat in a match where she fully engaged, contrasting with Friday’s slow start in the singles match.

The American quickly took a 4-0 lead in the first set, highlighting the potential fatigue of Hanne Vandewinkel, who had to push her body beyond limits in a failed attempt to defeat Emma Navarro on Friday night.

The 19-year-old Belgian, ranked 278th in the world, had a stellar start on opening day at the USTA National Tennis Center and came very close to causing a major upset against the world No. 21, Navarro.

Against Pegula, the match favored the locals. The American admitted that the night before she had struggled to defeat Sofia Costoulas, but, based on her experience, sometimes everything falls into place the next day. That’s what happened against Vandewinkel.

Pegula scored 21 winners, earning praise from her new captain Lindsay Davenport, who replaced Kathy Rinaldi earlier this season.

«We had an incredible week together,» said Davenport. «These women have taught me a lot. Last night, the way they fought, they had some tough conditions.

«With 6-2 5-0 today, I told Jess ‘this is much more fun!’ I think everyone here has been able to see the level that Jess is capable of.»

With the tie decided, the United States has booked its place in the end-of-year final in Seville. Meanwhile, Belgium will compete in the Billie Jean King Cup playoffs.

With the series decided, the doubles match was in the hands of Taylor Townsend and Caroline Dolehide against Marie Benoit and Kimberley Zimmermann (6-3 and 6-1).