Czechs down Ukraine to claim 12th Billie Jean King Cup crown

Czech Republic brushed aside Ukraine to win their 12th Billie Jean King Cup title in Shenzhen, China, on Sunday, with Karolina Muchova and Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova delivering an unassailable 2-0 lead in the final.

Wimbledon runner-up Muchova swept past Anhelina Kalinina 6-2 6-3 in the opening singles rubber before Noskova toppled world number seven Elina Svitolina 6-3 7-6(5) to seal the title.

The Czechs are the second-most successful nation in the history of the premier international women's team competition, behind the United States, who hold a record 18 titles. Ukraine were seeking their first Billie Jean King Cup crown.