Tennis star Rus escapes in Billie Jean King Cup play-offs

Dutch tennis star Arantxa Rus has secured a vital victory for the Netherlands in their Billie Jean King Cup play-off clash against Belarus.

Rus, the world number 135, defeated Anna Blinkova 13 11, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 in the opening singles match in 's-Hertogenbosch.

The victory gives the Netherlands an early 1-0 lead in the best-of-five tie, with the winner advancing to the finals in November.

Rus was in fine form throughout the match, hitting 30 winners and breaking Blinkova's serve on six occasions.

The Dutch team will be looking to build on Rus's victory when they face Belarus in the second singles match later today.

The Billie Jean King Cup is the premier international team competition in women's tennis, and is contested by 16 nations.

The Netherlands are making their first appearance in the play-offs since 2018, while Belarus are seeking to reach the finals for the second time in three years.