British women on winning grass run after tennis slump on clay
Britain’s female tennis players have returned to winning ways after a disappointing spell at the French Open.
No woman made the main draw of the calendar’s second Grand Slam but racked up four win on the grass at the Nottingham Open.
British No1 Katie Boulter beat fellow countrywoman Emily Appleton 6-1 6-3 while Jodie Burrage completed an impressive three-set 7-6 6-3 7-6 win over Tereza Martincova.
Katie Swan beat her French opponent Alize Cornet and Harriet Dart toppled Canadian Rebecca Marino 6-4 6-2.
After becoming British tennis’ No1 this week, Boulter said: “Been mulling over whether I was going to post this today.
“It’s not my highest ranking nor my best career moment, however someone reminded me today that this little girl would be proud if I told her she would be British number 1 one day.
“Whether it be for one minute, one day or one year, it’s not my biggest goal but shows I’m heading in the right direction. Now I’ve got work to do as my main goals are pending.”
Grass court opens such as Nottingham, Eastbourne and Queens culminate in the third Grand Slam of the season, Wimbledon, which begins on the opening weekend of July with Elena Rybakina defending champion.
Novak Djokovic is set to return to Wimbledon to defend his title next month having last weekend become the first man to reach 23 tennis Grand Slam titles.
The Serbian has drawn level with Serena Williams for titles won and is trying to chase down the Jimmy Connors record of 109 ATP titles – he currently has 94.
Wimbledon returns amid chatter about the All England Club’s expansion, with planning decisions currently with local councils in the area. A decision is expected after this year’s Championships.