British No 1 Katie Boulter battled back from a set down to beat in-form Wang Yafan and set-up a winnable third-round meeting with American Peyton Stearns at the US Open.
Wang was on an 11-match winning streak but it was put to an end by Boulter, who matched her run at Wimbledon this summer by fighting back to win 5-7 6-1 6-4 in two hours and 21 minutes on Court 5.
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Boulter was delighted after fighting back to beat Wang
“I’m obviously super happy. At the start of the match I was a little bit nervous and finishing it was a little bit nervous as well but I’m really proud of myself about the way I handled it and managed to get over the line,” Boulter told Sky Sports’ Tennis.
“I’ve got a few things to work on but I’m sure I’ll bounce back. I loved it out there. It was packed and I think that’s what got me over the line today. I’m so happy.”
In a tight first set, Boulter retrieved an early break, was given a warning for angrily swatting the ball away and had three set points on the Wang serve.
But she was unable to convert any of them and Wang promptly broke to wrap up the set.
However Boulter, from Leicester, cleared her head impressively and dominated the second set to level the match.
Having broken again for 5-4 in the decider she suffered a horrible wobble, throwing in two double faults in the first three points.
But once again Boulter recovered her composure and wrapped up a fine win when Wang hit the net.
Navratilova impressed with Boulter’s attitude
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Martina Navratilova was full of praise for Boulter after her win
“She reacted beautifully after losing the first set,” said tennis legend Martina Navratilova.
“She really recovered well and held her nerve and attitude to make it work.”
Tale of the Tape
Who’s next for Boulter?
Peyton Stearns will take on Boulter for a spot in the last 16 at Flushing Meadows on Saturday
Boulter will face 21-year-old American Peyton Stearns, the world No 59, in what looks a very favourable draw, for a place in the last 16.
Burrage knocked out by Sabalenka
Jodie Burrage was outclassed by big-hitting Aryna Sabalenka
British No 2 Jodie Burrage was knocked out, however, losing 6-3 6-2 but by no means being outclassed by second seed Aryna Sabalenka.
“Obviously not the result I was looking for, but I had a pretty tough opponent,” said Burrage. “I thought she played really well today. She served really well, especially in the big moments.
“But I’m happy with how I played in a way and happy with how I was on the court.
“It’s a big occasion and you’re playing a big player like that. And I’m happy with the way I went about it. I didn’t feel out of place out there at all.”
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Highlights of Aryna Sabalenka’s second round victory against Jodie Burrage
The US Open on Sky Sports: How and where to watch
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Watch the US Open live and exclusive on Sky Sports up until September 10. All courts will be available to watch for the first time
The US Open is back on Sky Sports with the promise to give fans live coverage of the Grand Slam like never before.
Sky welcomes tennis back to its channels, adding to the existing sports portfolio and reaffirming the broadcaster as the home of live sport in the UK & Ireland.
Sky Sports’ new mixed reality studio features multiple custom-built LED screens, integrated light ‘sabres’, and an open canopy roof, making the space alive with colour and energy to reflect the vibrancy of the last Grand Slam of the year.
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Relive Andy Murray’s rollercoaster career at the US Open, which saw him claim his maiden major title in 2012
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From Novak Djokovic to Iga Swiatek- it is time to meet the US Open champion contenders!
With integrated AR capabilities, a versatile LED floor, and a ‘fourth wall’, the viewer will be transported to the Arthur Ashe Stadium in a 360-degree immersive environment. Our tennis experts will take the viewer into the eyes of the players for expert Hawkeye analysis and insight as the tournament progresses.
The technology involved allows us to add an entirely new dimension and will bring customers closer to the action.
Highlights of matches will be available across Sky Sports TV and our social media platforms.
Video highlights will also be available on the Sky Sports website and app, where there will also be a daily live text commentary on the Sky Sports website and app, as well as live scores, reports, analysis and features.
Stream the US Open on Sky Sports with NOW for just £26 a month for 12 months. Cancel anytime.