STARNBERG, April 11, 2026
Germany’s Billie Jean King Cup team suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Lithuania in the relegation tie, sealing their drop to Regional Group II for the 2027 season. Despite a strong opening singles victory from Noma Noha Akugue, the German side fell short in the decisive moments.
Noha Akugue set the tone in the first singles match, overcoming challenging, windy conditions on the outside court to defeat Andre Lukosiute 6-4, 6-4. The 22-year-old handled her role as favourite with composure against the world No. 597.
Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an
“These were tough conditions today because it was very windy,” she said afterwards. “I tried to just keep the ball in play because the wind was coming from all directions. I focused on accepting it and doing my best.”
Ella Seidel had the opportunity to secure Germany’s place in the group in the second singles match and started strongly, racing through the opening set 6-1 against Justina Mikulskyte. However, momentum shifted as the match progressed, and Seidel was unable to maintain her level, eventually falling 6-1, 3-6, 2-6 after one hour and 49 minutes.
With the tie level at 1–1, the outcome came down to the doubles. Team captain Torben Beltz made a late adjustment to his lineup, pairing Noha Akugue with Nastasja Schunk, who made her first appearance of the week. The German duo edged a tight first set, but the Lithuanian pair Lukosiute/Mikulskyte responded strongly to take control of the match. In the end, Germany fell 7-5, 3-6, 8-10 in a match tie-break, confirming relegation.
“The relegation is a big disappointment for us,” said Beltz. “We were not good enough this week and have to accept that our opponents were better in the key moments. This does not meet the standards we have for German women’s tennis. We need to accept this result, analyze it, and come back stronger. We are convinced that there is more potential in this team.”
Germany will now compete in Regional Group II of the Billie Jean King Cup in 2027, with details regarding the location and format yet to be confirmed.
