Katie Boulter picked up a landmark victory in the first round of the Japan Women’s Open in Osaka.
The British No. 3 defeated Linda Noskova in straight sets to confirm her place in the second round of the WTA 250 event.
Boulter has suffered a tough time on the WTA’s Asian leg, but she looked back to her best against Noskova, who reached the final of the China Open.
The British star managed to do something she’s achieved just once all year previously against Noskova in Osaka.
Katie Boulter picks up second WTA Top 20 win of 2025 in Osaka
Boulter impressed on serve against Noskova and rarely looked in any trouble against the current World No. 17.
The star’s two-set win against the Czech player is just her second top 20 win of the year as we approach the end of the season.
Boulter’s only previous victory against a top 20 player this year came at Wimbledon when she defeated Paula Badosa.
The British star toppled the then-World No. 5 in three sets at her home tournament, before losing to Solana Sierra in round two.
Boulter will be hoping to make better use of her second top 20 win at the Japan Women’s Open when she plays Sorana Cîrstea in Osaka.
Katie Boulter reacts to landmark win
Boulter was interviewed on court after her victory against Noskova, where she said she was ‘really pleased’ with her performance.
“I think it’s been a difficult few weeks and I just tried to bet on myself and commit to the ball and go for it,” she added.
“Against someone like that, you kind of have to win the match, they’re not going to lose it, and I went out there and played a really good match today so I’m lucky.”
Boulter’s win against Noskova was the star’s first since defeating Hailey Baptiste in round one of the China Open.
