British number one Katie Boulter cruised into the semi-finals of the Hong Kong Open, defeating Anastasia Zakharova 6-4, 6-0. Ranked 29th in the world, Boulter faced a challenge in the first set, saving two break points in the seventh game before securing a crucial break in the 10th. The second set was a different story, as Boulter dominated, wrapping it up in just 30 minutes, highlighted by a stunning cross-court forehand during a lengthy rally in the fourth game.
“I felt like I was on another planet in the first set,” said Boulter, who also reached the semi-finals of the Pan Pacific Open last week. “She played some good tennis, but I stepped it up at 5-3 and played really well from there. I felt free and relaxed on the court.”
Boulter will face second seed Yue Yuan in the semi-finals after Yuan defeated American Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-3. The 28-year-old is aiming for her third WTA Tour title this season, having already won in Nottingham and San Diego.
