Unseeded Katie Boulter of England won the San Diego Open singles title on Sunday, defeating sixth-seeded Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine 5-7, 6-2, 6-2. The 27-year-old Boulter, a 10-year circuit veteran, claimed her second pro singles title in the week-long WTA 500 event by defeating higher-seeded competitors for the fifth time.
“I can’t stop smiling,” Boulter explained. “I’ve been wanting this my whole career and now I’ve got to move my goalposts and keep it going.”
As darkness descended early in the match, which had been delayed twice by intermittent showers, both players appeared to struggle to acclimatise to the uncharacteristically cool, windy, and rainy circumstances with temperatures in the mid-50s. Also read: Hopman Cup cancelled for 2024, to return in 2025
In her San Diego Open debut, Boulter overcame a flurry of unforced errors in the first set, initially intimidated by Kostyuk’s agility and athleticism.
Boulter, however, shown perseverance that would later serve her well, overcoming five set points before losing 7-5 on an inaccurate forehand past the baseline.
Undeterred, Boulter recovered her groove and won the second set, which featured fierce backcourt rallies. About 30 minutes later, Boulter was serving for the match at 5-2 when she sent a crosscourt forehand just beyond Kostyuk’s reach to win the title.
“I don’t even know where to begin, I’m so happy,” said Boulter, who is 6-1 this year against ranked opponents. “When I first came here, I never imagined I’d be carrying this trophy. Everyone here has been quite friendly and inviting to me.” Also read: Taylah Preston Net Worth Net Worth 2024, Prize Money, Sponsorships, Cars, Houses, Properties, Charities, Etc.
In reference to her 21-year-old opponent, Boulter said, “You’re so young and so talented, Marta. “I know your time will come. Following the match, Kostyuk paid tribute to her family in Ukraine.
“I don’t want to make this too sad, but first of all, I want to say hello to my family back in Ukraine,” she said. “It’s been a difficult time for them and I don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow, but there’s no one who wants me to win more than they do.”
Held at the Barnes Tennis Center, the San Diego Open is a WTA Tour 500 event with a total purse of $922,573, presented by Cymbiotika. Also read: Andrey Rublev, Daniil Medvedev Advance To Dubai Semifinals