Holder Germany knock Brazil out of United Cup

Defending champion Germany hammered Brazil 3-0 on Sunday to mark a successful kickoff to its United Cup title defence, sweeping Brazil out of the event 3-0.

The South Americans, beaten by China earlier in group play, cannot progress further at the 18-nation team event being played in Perth and Sydney with knockout stages to be played at the end of the week.

 ATP No. 2 Zverev led the way for last January’s winner over Poland, dispatching Thiago Monteiro 6-4, 6-4 with breaks at the start of both sets.

WTA teammate Laura Siegemund, the world No. 80, earned the first point of the tie, beating Beatriz Haddad Maia 6-3, 1-6, 6-4.

.In the mixed doubles, Siegemund and Tim Puetz wrapped up the day session over Carolina Alves and Rafael Matos 7-6 (10/8), 6-4

“This is the first time we’ve ever been up 2-0,” Zverev said. “Last year, I played deciding matches every time. 

“It’s nice to have this (tie) in the bag already. I’m very happy to be playing for Germany again.”

Siegemund needed more than two and a half hours to complete her upset of the 14th ranked Haddad Maia.

In the final set, the German took a 5-4 lead after three consecutive service breaks, then claimed victory a game later.

“It’s good to pull your best game out of the pocket in the first match of the season,” she said. “I tried to stay cool and take my advantages.

“The match was not perfect – but it’s not for anyone at the start of the year. I just tried to stay confident.”

In Sydney, the Czech Republic beat Norway, whose sixth-ranked Casper Ruud got past Tomas Machac 7-6 (6), 5-7, 6-4 before two more losses led to defeat.

“You kind of hope that it won’t be that tough, but what a way to start the new season,” Ruud said.

“If every match is going to be this tough, it’s going to be a tough (season).”

Main photo:- Laura Siegemund winning opening point of tie by ATPTour/United Cup