Great Britain's Dreams Dashed at United Cup, Dramatic Victory for Swiatek

Great Britain's Dreams Dashed at United Cup, Dramatic Victory for Swiatek

Great Britain’s hopes of reaching the United Cup semi-finals were crushed with a defeat to Poland. Katie Boulter lost a dramatic match against five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek, ending 6-7 (4-7), 6-1, 6-4.

The match, held in Sydney, Australia, lasted nearly three hours, with world number two Swiatek showcasing her skill to bring an end to Boulter’s spirited fight. After the match, a warm embrace between the players reflected their mutual respect.

“I’m exhausted. I’m happy I won so I didn’t have to play the doubles,” said Swiatek. “This match was so crazy, with so many momentum changes.”

Britain’s Hopes Fade

Britain’s semi-final hopes rested on Boulter after Billy Harris narrowly lost to Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in the men’s singles.

Harris, ranked 125th in the world, put up a strong fight but ultimately lost 7-6 (7-3), 7-5 to the world number 16 and 2021 Wimbledon semi-finalist Hurkacz.

Poland, one of the pre-tournament favorites, will now face Kazakhstan in the semi-finals.

Boulter’s Impressive Fight Against Swiatek

Katie Boulter, coming off the finest season of her career in 2023, has been a dependable player for Britain in the United Cup.

In the first set, Swiatek raced to a 4-1 lead, but Boulter fought back with her powerful groundstrokes to win the set in a tiebreak.

However, Swiatek adapted her strategy in the second set, taking control and winning it with ease. In the deciding set, Boulter secured an early break but lost momentum after Swiatek took a medical timeout.

Despite her chances, Boulter could not capitalize, and Swiatek secured victory, throwing her racket in relief.

Disappointing Results for Other British Players

There was more disappointment for British tennis fans at the WTA tournament in Auckland, New Zealand. Jodie Burrage held match point but lost to America’s Hailey Baptiste 5-7, 7-5, 7-6 (8-6).

Despite the loss, Burrage, who missed much of last season due to wrist and ankle injuries, will take confidence from her performance heading into the Australian Open, where she will play under an injury-protected ranking.