Heather Watson has not played a competitive tennis match since losing in the first qualifying round of the 2025 US Open, but her return to the sport is imminent.
Watson announced a ‘forced break’ from tennis in October due to a tendon issue in her left glute, but she is now ready to return.
The 33-year-old has dropped down to World No. 281 in the WTA Tour rankings, which is her lowest since 2009.
The British star is now on the comeback trail and she’s signed up for the qualifying of an upcoming WTA 500 event.
Heather Watson signs up for Merida Open qualifying
Watson will head to Mexico to compete in the Merida Open qualifying alongside some big names, including Zhang Shuai and Priscilla Hon.
Speaking on Instagram, the British star wrote: “Beginning my return to Tour after six months out with injury in this beautiful place. See you on court tomorrow.”
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Watson faces a difficult task in her first match back as she plays Frenchwoman Diane Parry in the first round of qualifying.
Parry is a former top 50 player and last year reached the third round of Wimbledon and the US Open, her best ever results at both Grand Slams.
Watson, meanwhile, has never played the main draw of the Merida Open, so she will be making career history if she gets through qualifying.
Heather Watson will be joined by another British star in Merida
Watson will not be the only British star looking to bolster her ranking at the Mexican tournament, as Katie Boulter will also be competing.
Boulter has shown a resurgence in 2026, which peaked with her victory at the Ostrava Open earlier this year.
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The British star has received a wild card for the event as she looks to continue her rise up the rankings after dropping out of the top 100 at the beginning of the year.
Boulter currently sits at World No. 75 in the rankings, which makes her the British number four behind Fran Jones, Sonay Kartal, and Emma Raducanu.
The British star will be competing in Merida alongside Jasmine Paolini, Emma Navarro, and Diana Schnaider.
