(San Diego) Briton Katie Boulter capped a week full of surprises by defeating sixth seed Marta Kostyuk 5-7, 6-2, 6-2 in the final on Sunday evening, winning the title in the process. of the San Diego Open.
Boulter, 27, won her second career professional title after posting a fifth straight victory against higher-ranked players this week in this WTA 500 series tournament.
“I can’t stop smiling,” Boulter exclaimed. I’ve been waiting for this my whole career, and now I have to redefine my goals and keep going. »
As darkness enveloped the stadium — the game was interrupted twice by rain — both players appeared to have difficulty adjusting to the unusually cool, windy and humid conditions for the time of year in California.
In her first appearance at the San Diego Open, Boulter committed an array of unforced errors in the first set, being rushed by the speed and physical skills of the Ukrainian. The player who competes for her 10e season on the WTA circuit, however, recovered, ignoring five set points, before finally missing a forehand from the baseline which sealed the outcome of the first set 7-5 in favor of Kostyuk .
Despite everything, Boulter found his rhythm and won the second set, which was marked by numerous exchanges at the back of the field.
About 30 minutes later, Boulter served for the match at 5-2. She fired a crosscourt forehand that could not be met by Kostyuk, confirming her victory.
“I don’t know what to say, I’m so happy,” said Boulter, who is 6-1 against top seeds so far this season. When I arrived here, I really didn’t think I would be able to lift this trophy. Everyone has been so caring and warm to me here. »