Italy claimed their first Billie Jean King Cup title in 11 years as Jasmine Paolini secured a 2-0 win over Slovakia in Malaga.
Paolini, who enjoyed a breakout 2024 season, was part of the Italian team that finished second in Canada 12 months ago.
The world number four won 6-2, 6-1 against Rebecca Sramkova after Lucia Bronzetti gave Italy the lead with a 6-2, 6-4 victory over Viktoria Hruncakova in the first singles.
“I always dreamed of this trophy,” said Bronzetti, playing only her second singles match in the competition.
“We are world champions, we can be much happier. It’s a dream for all of us and we are so proud.”
Italy, which will receive $2.4 million (£1.9 million) in prize money for winning its fifth title, has become a tennis powerhouse of late, with the men's team – led by world number one Jannik Sinner – won their first Davis Cup in 47 years in 2023.
“I think it's an incredible year for Italian tennis and it's so good for our sport in our country,” Paolini told reporters.
“We now have a lot of tennis fans in Italy, tennis is growing a lot.”
Captain Tathiana Garbin said: “It’s a dream come true. I have such great champions, great players and great people.”
“I'm so proud of her. They fight every day.”
Slovakia, who knocked out Great Britain played their first final since winning the tournament in 2002 on Tuesday.
