Courtesy: Google
Katie Boulter’s Madrid Open journey came to an early end after a commanding defeat at the hands of sixth seed Jasmine Paolini. The Italian, known for her clay-court prowess, overwhelmed Boulter with a 6-1, 6-2 win in just 61 minutes. It was a tough outing for the British No. 1, who struggled to match Paolini’s pace and precision from the baseline. Paolini converted six of seven break points, never allowing Boulter to settle into the match. Despite the loss, the tournament still offered a notable moment in Boulter’s career.
Before facing Paolini, Boulter secured her first career WTA Tour-level clay-court victory in the opening round. She overcame a shaky start to defeat Katerina Siniakova in a gritty three-set contest, a win that not only marked a personal milestone, but also highlighted her growing adaptability on slower surfaces. While her second-round performance didn’t go as planned, the experience added to her development on clay; a surface that has historically challenged many British players. Paolini now advances to face Maria Sakkari, while Boulter shifts focus to the next stage of her season.
I don’t feel any pressure: Boulter on being British No. 1
Despite her recent setback, Boulter remains composed under the spotlight that comes with being Britain’s top-ranked female player. She has repeatedly downplayed the pressure of holding that title, saying, “It’s a privilege, but it’s not my sole focus. My No. 1 focus is to keep my attitude right and my number going in the right direction.” Her grounded outlook reflects a long-term approach, where consistent progress and mental clarity outweigh rankings or public expectation. Boulter also stresses the importance of working hard each week, regardless of external narratives.
Ahead of major tournaments, Boulter has emphasized her comfort in the role, explaining, “I feel very comfortable in my own skin when it comes to that kind of stuff. I can do my best and at the end of the day that’s all I can do.” Rather than letting the weight of national attention impact her game, she’s embraced a mindset focused on personal growth and effort. Her statements suggest a maturity that may well serve her in the seasons ahead, especially as she continues to push for deeper runs at major events and solidify her place among the sport’s elite.
