Belinda Bencic enjoyed a simply stunning 2026 United Cup, where the Switzerland star was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Coco Gauff was named MVP at the 2025 United Cup, but Bencic has now taken over that title after helping Switzerland finish as runners-up.
They lost 2-1 to Poland in the final in Sydney, although Bencic beat Iga Swiatek in the first singles match of the tie.
Hubert Hurkacz defeated Stan Wawrinka to level the tie, with Poland then winning the doubles decider to clinch the trophy.
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Belinda Bencic ‘serious’ about Australian Open after United Cup MVP honor
The matches arrived after Bencic stunned WTA rival Swiatek 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 in two hours and 11 minutes, helping her finish the event with a 5-0 singles record.
Afterwards, she was asked if she’s hoping to be a serious contender for the Australian Open title, with Bencic replying: “Yeah, I’m always serious about the Australian Open.
“Of course, it’s been a huge confidence boost. Playing some good matches here now, I have some days to rest and prepare [for] the new conditions.
“We have a little bit more time to go there. Just super excited to play the first Slam. I’m always just very focused on the first round.
“It’s going to be a new tournament. Yeah, just new focus for Australian Open.”
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Belinda Bencic proves a point to herself with WTA top 10 return
Bencic was on a whole other level at the United Cup, which has unsurprisingly handed her the timely confidence boost.
She also earned 500 ranking points thanks to her efforts in Australia, helping Bencic return to the WTA top 10.
Discussing that boost, the former world number four said: “Of course, big confidence booster. You start the year, and you’re just trying to get matches in.
“Obviously it’s been great playing match after match, but being pushed so much from everyone. Yeah, also super happy to be in the top 10 now.
“I think it’s been a huge goal, maybe a huge ride after the whole comeback, to come back and prove this to myself, that it’s possible. Yeah, we keep on going.”
Her focus now turns to the Australian Open, where the Switzerland star has never made it beyond the fourth round.
Bencic has never made it past the third round of the French Open, but has reached the semifinals of both Wimbledon and the US Open.
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