Elena Rybakina marks her United Cup debut by helping Kazakhstan to a 2-1 victory over Spain at the season-opening tournament in Australia.

Elena Rybakina guided Kazakhstan to a 2-1 victory against Spain in her United Cup debut at the RAC Arena in Perth on Friday, and Gao Xinyu stunned Beatriz Haddad Maia in China's victory over Brazil.

Gao Xinyu of China hits a return during the women singles match against Beatriz Haddad Maia of Brazil in the Group E

Gao Xinyu (L) of China shakes hand with Beatriz Haddad Maia of Brazil after their women's singles match in the Group E round robin match between China and Brazil at the 2025 United Cup tennis tournament in Perth, Australia, Dec. 27, 2024. (Xinhua/Ma Ping)

Elena Rybakina led Kazakhstan to victory against Spain at the United Cup, marking her debut with a singles win and a decisive mixed doubles victory. Meanwhile, China's Gao Xinyu staged a stunning win over Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia,

Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan serves against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro of Spain during the Group C match between Kazakhst

World number six Elena Rybakina led Kazakhstan to a 2-1 defeat of Spain on Friday, as the former Wimbledon champion made a winning start to the season at the United Cup mixed-team event. Rybakina, who won three titles in her first eight tournaments last season before being sidelined by injuries and illness,