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Katie Boulter brightens British tennis spirits with biggest title to date

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Katie Boulter brightens British tennis spirits with biggest title to date — Katie Boulter (right) with her title and fellow Brit Freya Christie (Picture: Instagram/@katiecboulter)

Its been a tough few days for British tennis after a disappointing Fed Cup defeat to Japan, but Katie Boulter certainly brightened the mood by landing an ITF title in Portugal.

After Johanna Konta and Heather Watson failed to secure a return to the World Group – losing in a fourth play-off in seven years – questions were raised regarding the lack of strength in depth at the top end of womens tennis in the UK.

But one of Britains shining lights issued a fine response to all the doom and gloom as she claimed her fourth ITF singles title in Obidos.

Boulter battled to a 4-6 6-3 6-3 win over Urszula Radwanska – the younger sister of former world No. 2 Agnieszka – in what was the biggest title of her career to date.

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Radwanska – who took out Boulters compatriot Katie Swan in the semi-finals – is a former top-30 player herself, having peaked at 29th in the WTA rankings, but despite taking a one-set lead she ultimately proved no match for the second seed.

Boulter, 21, told Metro.co.uk: Its always difficult going into a match against someone much more experienced than you, but really I just try and focus on myself and accept they will play well.

It was a great tournament for me. I worked really hard and never gave up – I think that determination really made the difference this week.

Though it feels good to have won my first title of the year I dont have much time to celebrate. As I speak to you Im already boarding a plane back to London!

After I arrive back to London later this evening, I have three weeks in Japan followed by Roland Garros in Paris and then onto the start of the grass season.

The Obidos Ladies Open 2 victory was another big step forward in the talented 21-year-olds career, who is full of confidence having qualified for the Miami Open.

After her win, the British No. 5 is set for a career-high ranking next week.