Flavio Cobolli produced one of the most dramatic performances in Davis Cup history as he saved seven match points to defeat Belgium’s Zizou Bergs and send Italy into Sunday’s final in Bologna.
The 23-year-old battled to a thrilling 6-3, 6-7 (5-7), 7-6 (17-15) victory, sealing the marathon 32-point tie-break on his seventh match point before ripping off his shirt in celebration as the home crowd erupted.
The tie-break now stands as the sixth-longest in the 125-year history of the competition.
Italy will face either Spain or Germany as they chase a third consecutive Davis Cup title – a feat last achieved more than five decades ago.
Speaking courtside after the match, world number 22 Cobolli described the moment as “one of the best days of my life,” paying tribute to his team, family, and supporters.
He also consoled a devastated Bergs, who sat with his head in his hands after the three-hour battle.
Italy captain Filippo Volandri hailed the victory as unprecedented in his five years in charge, describing the performance as “5% tactics and 95% heart.”
Earlier, Matteo Berrettini gave Italy the perfect start with a composed 6-3, 6-4 win over Raphael Collignon.
Backed by a sell-out crowd of 10,000, the former Wimbledon finalist extended his unbeaten run in the competition to eight matches.
Italy’s progression to their third straight final is particularly remarkable given the absence of their top two singles players, Jannik Sinner and Lorenzo Musetti.
A victory on Sunday would secure Italy their third consecutive Davis Cup crown – the longest period of dominance since the United States won four in a row in 1972.
The atmosphere inside Bologna’s SuperTennis Arena reached fever pitch as Cobolli and Bergs traded match points in a gripping finale.
Cobolli’s ability to escape four match points in six points and maintain composure under immense pressure proved decisive.
Bergs finally faltered with a wide forehand, presenting Cobolli with his seventh match point, and the Italian responded with a blistering first serve to complete an unforgettable night for the hosts.
With momentum, home support, and unwavering belief, Italy now turn their focus to Sunday’s final as they aim to cement their status as the dominant force in modern Davis Cup tennis.
