Katie Boulter fought back from a set down to steer Great Britain to victory over Germany in the Billie Jean King Cup.
The British No 1 beat Tatjana Maria 1-6 6-3 6-1 in the Netherlands to move Team GB into an unassailable 2-0 lead in the tie.
Team GB take on hosts Netherlands on Saturday for the right to qualify for September’s eight-nation finals in China. Germany can no longer qualify after losing against the hosts on Thursday.
“I just kept believing in myself,” Boulter said.
“It was hard to come out against someone who has played so well on clay and Tatjana made it difficult for me at the beginning. I am very proud of myself for how I came back.”
Earlier, Sonay Kartal shone on her tournament debut, claiming Britain’s first win with a 6-4 6-2 victory over Jule Niemeier.
Olivia Nicholls and Harriet Dart will still represent Britain in the doubles against Laura Siegemund and Anna-Lena Friedsam, despite it being a dead-rubber.
Kartal enjoys BJK Cup debut
Kartal said: “I’m super proud of that debut match. It is obviously nerve-wracking when you’re the first match on, but I’m proud of my performance. I think the crowd definitely stuck with me.
“I loved having the coach next to me, it is completely different for me. I also loved having the rest of the guys behind me on the bench. It is a different kind of tennis, but I absolutely love this environment.
“It’s important getting that first win on the board.”
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