The Baseline Top 5: Unforgettable Fed Cup moments

Throughout its history, the Fed Cup has had its share of amazing achievements and memorable occasions. Here’s a look at five of them, from triumphant homecomings to legendary performances—and a memorable celebration.

1

After she defected to the United States in 1975 from Czechoslovakia, Martina Navratilova would go on to become one of the game’s all-time greats, as well as a naturalized American citizen. She represented the U.S. in Fed Cup and was part of the team that made it to the final in 1986. Their opponent? Czechoslovakia. This marked Navratilova’s first trip to her home country since she left. The U.S. won 3-0.

2

It might be one of the all-time revenge moves. Before their Fed Cup match in 2015, Canada's Eugenie Bouchard chose not to shake hands with Romania's Alexandra Dulgheru. Dulgheru would soon have the upper hand, though, by stunning Bouchard in front of the Canadian crowd and marking the occasion with a very pointed celebration.

3

The Czech Republic has been nearly unbeatable in Fed Cup play this decade. The team went through one of its tightest encounters in the 2016 final against France, with the first match setting the tone. U.S. Open finalist Karolina Pliskova went toe-to-toe with Frenchwoman Kristina Mladenovic before finally prevailing 16-14 in the final frame.

4

Even though their participation has been somewhat spotty over the years, you couldn’t ask for a better debut. Venus and Serena Williams made their first appearances in the 1999 semifinals and the team went on to win the title with a victory over Russia. It’s the only Fed Cup title for the pair.

5

With a first French Open title and Wimbledon runner-up appearance already in hand that year, Steffi Graf’s march toward greatness was in full swing in 1987. The 18-year-old helped West Germany win its first Fed Cup title with a win over the United States.

Check out her match against Chris Evert here.