Katie Boulter has advanced to the China Open second round after defeating Hailey Baptiste in three sets on Wednesday.
Boulter was made to work hard by her American opponent, but found a way to emerge victorious, winning 7-5, 5-7, 6-4.
The Brit was looking to bounce back after her nation’s disappointing loss to the USA in the Billie Jean King Cup semi-finals.
Boulter certainly managed to do so, holding her nerve in the latter stages on her way to victory.
Immediately after the match, Boulter praised her opponent while analysing her own performance.
Katie Boulter says she found it ‘really difficult to get over the line’
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Boulter said: “What a battle. I found it really difficult to get over the line today.
“I think she [Hailey Baptiste] was playing some really disruptive tennis, I think she’s so talented.
“I know what she’s capable of, and I’m really pleased that mentally I’ve stayed as strong as I possibly could and found a way through it. So yeah, I’m happy.
Boulter, who will play US Open finalist Amanda Anisimova in the next round, was asked to pinpoint the ‘key’ to her victory.
“I think my head,” Boulter replied.
“I think honestly, I’ve had a tough couple of months, and I’m just really pleased with the way I’m putting myself out there and just trying to fight for every single point.
“And the tennis will come, I played some really good tennis last week.
“Obviously new conditions here, tough to play against a really good player. So yeah, I think I did well to get through that match.”
Boulter played her heart out against Hailey Baptiste, proving to be particularly effective on her serve.
As per Sofascore, the British number two made 72 per cent of her first serves, while winning 60 per cent of her second serve points.
Boulter thanks her supporters
During the same interview, Boulter was asked to comment on the support she had received from the Beijing crowd.
Boulter said: “Thank you so much for staying out here.
“It feels so nice to be welcomed in China, in Beijing. I have an amazing time here.
“You guys are an incredible support, so I really appreciate it. So yeah, xièxie [thank you].”
