Issue link: http://itf.uberflip.com/i/1464213
10 Spring 2022 ITF World Ahead of seven crunch Qualifiers, the eponymous heroine of the Billie Jean King Cup gives a rousing team talk to the those representing their national teams this week LOVE IT go for it! The moment has arrived. It is once again time for players from across the globe to wear their national team colours with pride and help their nation reach the Billie Jean King Cup by BNP Paribas Finals, the world cup of tennis. Last November, at the inaugural Finals in Prague, we witnessed a global sports competition that was compelling and captivating. It was a thrill to see the world's top-ranked players, Grand Slam champions, Olympic medallists and emerging talent representing their nations. That is what is at stake over the coming days, the chance to advance to the 2022 Finals and compete against the world's strongest teams, its best players and most astute captains, with the opportunity to lift the Cup and make history. Around the world this weekend we have seven Qualifiers in store for you. The winners will will join 2021 finalists Switzerland, Australia, Slovakia and Belgium, together with the host nation, in a 12-team six-day showdown from November 8-13 at this year's Finals. To add to this week's drama, there are a number of Grand Slam champions among the players selected by their captains to represent their nation in the Qualifiers. This tournament has provided many memories and career highs during its 59-year history, whether it be under the Billie Jean King Cup banner or Fed Cup and its previous incarnations. It is an integral part of the annual tennis schedule and an important part of the qualifying process for the Olympics. Some of the teams competing this week – France, USA, Czech Republic, Germany, Canada, and Spain – competed in the 2021 Finals and will no doubt be eager to secure a return to this year's tournament. For the likes of Italy, Ukraine, Great Britain, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Netherlands, Poland and Romania opportunity knocks, with the chance to reach the 2022 Finals. This week is not just about the competition. It's about building relationships on and off the court. I wish all the nations, athletes and their support teams the best. Be bold, represent your nation with pride and passion but, above all, love it and go for it! Here's to a great week. Billie Jean King C L I C K H E R E TO WATC H BILLIE JEAN KING CUP