US complete comeback to edge Argentina

Holder the US had to fight back from a deficit after Taylor Fritz was ambushed 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 on Saturday by Argentine Sebastian Baez in the first upset of the United Cup in Perth.

The 18-nation mixed-team event is being played simultaneously in Sydney, with winning group teams heading to the New South Wales capital for the final three days of play next weekend.

Fritz delivered 23 aces but also suffered a lightly rolled ankle and shamed a few racquets in frustration on the way to defeat.

The American had to rely on Coco Gauff to produce a 6-1, 6-1 thrashing of Solana Sierra to level the tie at 1-all before Gauff and specialist Christian Harrison combined to deliver the deciding mixed doubles win for the 2-1 final result.

“I’m really happy, there was a bit of pressure, Gauff said. “I know I can play even better, I want to continue this.”

In Sydney, China’s Zhang Zhizhen led his country to a 2-1 defeat of Belgium.

Casper Ruud put Norway into the lead against Australia as he humbled Alex de MInaur 6-3, 6-3. But women[s no. 1 Maya Joint was unable to front up due to illness, leaving rookie substitute Storm Hunter the job of defeating Malene Helgo 6-2, 7-6 (3).

The Aussies finished the job in the mixed, with Hunter and John-Patrick Smith beating Ulrikke Eikeri and Viktor Durasovic 4-6, 6-1, 10-4.

Main photo:- Coco Gauff winning for USA in Perth – by Tennis Australia