Katie Boulter apologises after pulling out of WTA tournament through injury

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Katie Boulter has made a strong start to her grass-court campaign, reaching the semifinals at Queen’s in her opening event.

After going out in the second round of Roland Garros, Boulter had time to prepare for the switch from clay, and she clearly put that break to good use.

She advanced to the final four before falling to eventual champion Donna Vekic. The result lifted her up to No. 56 in the world rankings.

Boulter is now up to 56th in the WTA rankings following that performance. However, a minor injury has forced her out of this week’s Nottingham Open, slowing her early-season progress.

Katie Boulter withdraws from Nottingham Open with injury

Boulter shared the news on Instagram, saying: “Small update, unfortunately, I’m having to withdraw from Nottingham after picking up a small injury last week, there’s not quite enough time.”

“If you know anything about me, you’ll know that this tournament is so much more than just another week, it means a great deal to me personally.

“I’m sorry to not be out there but it’s the right thing for me to do.”

The announcement will disappoint fans who were looking forward to seeing her play. But with Wimbledon coming up, she needs to be cautious and avoid any unnecessary setbacks.

Katie Boulter joins Emma Raducanu in Nottingham Open withdrawal

Boulter isn’t the only notable player pulling out of Nottingham. Emma Raducanu, who reached the final at Queen’s before falling to Vekic, has also decided not to take part.

It was an impressive showing for British players at Queen’s, but their absence is noticeable as the event tries to manage its place in a packed calendar.

With Nottingham coming right after Queen’s and so close to Wimbledon, some withdrawals were always expected.

Raducanu’s decision makes sense too. She had back-to-back matches during her quarterfinal and semifinal run in London and played with her left thigh strapped. Her absence from Nottingham seems precautionary rather than due to any serious issue.

Iva Jovic of the United States has also withdrawn because of injury. However, players such as Leylah Fernandez, Emma Navarro and Qinwen Zheng are still set to compete at the WTA 250 event.