British tennis celebrated a historic milestone at the Australian Open as Katie Boulter became the sixth British player to advance to the second round, following a hard-fought victory over Rebecca Marino.
The British number one’s 6-4 3-6 7-5 triumph marked the first time that six British players have progressed beyond the opening round at Melbourne Park.
Boulter’s gritty performance completed the remarkable achievement, joining fellow Britons Jack Draper, Emma Raducanu, Jodie Burrage, Harriet Dart and Jacob Fearnley in the next stage of the tournament.
The 22nd seed’s victory came under intense pressure, setting a new benchmark for British tennis at the year’s first Grand Slam.
Katie Boulter is through to the second round
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Boulter faced significant challenges early in the match against her 98th-ranked opponent, with back-to-back double faults costing her an early break.
The British star quickly recovered, breaking back and then securing a 4-3 lead before claiming the first set.
Marino, however, mounted a strong response in the second set, finding rhythm with her powerful serve and groundstrokes.
The momentum shifted as the Canadian dominated the second set, breaking Boulter’s serve in the second game.
The deciding set saw Boulter under immense pressure, successfully defending break points at 2-2 and showing remarkable resilience.
Katie Boulter is the No 1 British seed in the women’s draw
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“That was way too stressful for me,” admitted Boulter after her victory.
The British star, who entered the Melbourne slam with high expectations following strong form at the United Cup, acknowledged the mental challenge of the match.
“I would have preferred a much easier match. She came out firing today,” Boulter reflected.
“I’ve been playing great tennis on the practice court and I really wanted to put that on the match court but sometimes when you try to force it it doesn’t work.
“I’m just happy I found a way and sometimes that’s what these first-round matches are about.”
The match reached a crucial stage as Boulter’s fiancé Alex De Minaur rushed from his own victory on Rod Laver Arena to support her.
De Minaur, who had been watching the contest from an exercise bike, sprinted down the steps to join her team.
Boulter showed visible disbelief at some of Marino’s impressive shots during the tense final set.
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Emma Raducanu is also through in the women’s draw
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The breakthrough finally came with Marino serving at 5-6, as Boulter found her rhythm on the return.
The British No 1 sealed her historic victory on her second match point when Marino netted, completing a remarkable comeback.
Boulter’s resilient performance completes a remarkable showing from the British contingent at Melbourne Park.
Andy Murray set the benchmark for British tennis throughout his career, but he was regularly flying the flag solo at the major events.