Wed Jul 23 22:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Katie Boulter is set to face Maria Sakkari in the first round of the WTA Washington tournament. Boulter aims to rebound from a disappointing end to her grass court season. While Sakkari has shown strength in return games, Boulter has been more effective in converting break points. Both players have aggressive baseline games, but Sakkari may have a slight edge in agility. Both players are coming off second-round exits at Wimbledon and may experience some rust. Boulter has been on the rise, while Sakkari’s ranking has been declining. The article predicts Boulter will win in three sets.
**News Article:**
**Boulter Faces Sakkari in Washington Opener, Eyes Hard Court Rebound**
WASHINGTON D.C. – Katie Boulter will kick off her US hard court season at the Mubadala Citi Open in Washington D.C., facing a familiar foe in Maria Sakkari in the first round. After an earlier-than-expected exit at Wimbledon, Boulter looks to regain momentum against the former world No. 3.
While Sakkari has demonstrated sharp return skills, Boulter has been notably efficient in capitalizing on break point opportunities. Both players favor an aggressive baseline style, with Sakkari perhaps holding a slight advantage in agility. The match marks a return to competition for both players following their second-round exits at Wimbledon, potentially leading to some initial rust.
Despite Sakkari’s past success, Boulter’s recent trajectory suggests an opportunity for an upset. Experts predict a challenging match with Boulter ultimately prevailing in three sets.
First Piper 