Hello everybody and welcome back to Talkn Tennis — the only tennis podcast you need to be listening to if you want informed and unbiased opinions.

My name’s Chris, I’ll be your host for this special run of episodes covering tennis down under, and I’m kicking things off by unpacking Day 1 of the United Cup — who’s playing, who should win, and who might already be regretting their off-season.

We’re officially back in Australian summer mode — heat, crowds, national pride, and players stepping straight into meaningful matches before the Australian Open even begins.

Today’s episode is all about the United Cup — and despite the name, this isn’t some brand-new gimmick. Mixed-team international tennis has been around for decades.

Before the United Cup, we had the Hopman Cup — a tournament Australians know well. The idea was the same: men and women competing together, countries represented, and bragging rights on the line. The difference now? The United Cup runs on a much bigger scale, features deeper teams, and — crucially — offers ATP and WTA ranking points, which means players actually show up and actually care. A maximum of 500 points is offered. For example, a group-stage match win is worth 55 points if you beat a top-10 opponent, but is worth 45 points for beating an 11-20 ranked player, and decreases per ranking bracket.

So while the branding’s new, the concept isn’t. This is team tennis with consequences — and in my opinion, it’s one of the better ways to launch the season before Melbourne Park opens its doors.

So let’s get into it — the matchups, the pressure points, and the predictions that will absolutely be used against me tomorrow if they don’t land.

If you’re new to it — or you’ve watched it but never fully understood how it works — here’s the simple version.

The United Cup is an international mixed-team tournament, played right here in Australia, where countries compete using both their male and female players.

Think Davis Cup meets Billie Jean King Cup… but combined, faster, louder, and way more entertaining for fans.

It’s not just an exhibition either — this thing counts for ATP and WTA ranking points, which means players are taking it seriously. You’re seeing top-level tennis before the Australian Open even begins.

Here’s how it breaks down:

1. Each tie is played nation vs nation
2. A tie consists of:
3. 
   
4. One men’s singles match
5. One women’s singles match
6. One mixed doubles match
7. 
   
8. First team to win two matches takes the tie

The mixed doubles is often the decider — and honestly, that’s where the chaos and entertainment really kick in.

Different styles, big personalities, pressure moments… it’s unreal viewing.

Teams progress through a group stage, then into knockout rounds, all building towards the final — usually with the Australian Open buzz already humming in the...