Katie Boulter Defeats Beatriz Haddad Maia in Merida Open Opener
Katie Boulter triumphed over Beatriz Haddad Maia in the first round of the Merida Open. The match concluded with a score of 6-4, 6-4. Boulter, currently ranked as British No. 3, faced challenges with her serving throughout the contest.
Katie Boulter’s Performance
Boulter struggled with her first serve, managing to land only 36% against Haddad Maia. The Brazilian player has been experiencing a tough start to the 2026 season, having lost six of her seven matches thus far. In contrast, Boulter recently claimed victory at the Ostrava Open.
Match Details
The match was characterized by a high number of unforced errors, with Boulter committing 38 during play. Additionally, she faced her serve being broken five times in a nearly two-hour match. The initial stages saw both players struggling to hold serve, with the first four games going against serve before Haddad Maia eventually held. Boulter secured the opening set by holding serve in the sixth and tenth games.
- Set One: Boulter 6 – 4 Haddad Maia
- Set Two: Boulter 6 – 4 Haddad Maia
Second Set Highlights
In the second set, Boulter quickly established a 3-0 lead. However, she continued to experience difficulties with her serve, ultimately needing two match points to secure her victory. On the first match point, she recorded her ninth double fault.
Boulter’s Reflections
After the match, Boulter reflected on her performance, stating, “I just tried to keep believing in what I’d been doing. Obviously, very different conditions from what I’ve been playing in.” She acknowledged Haddad Maia’s competitive spirit, noting, “She’s an incredible player and she never gives you anything.”
Other Matches in Mexico
Meanwhile, Cameron Norrie’s campaign at the Abierto Mexicano Telcel ended prematurely. He faced Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar and lost in just 56 minutes, with a score of 6-3, 6-2. Jodar, a former junior US Open champion, dominated the second set, winning five games in a row and conceding only two points.
- Norrie’s Result: Lost to Rafael Jodar 6-3, 6-2
