Hong Kong Open: Katie Boulter first into final after tough three set win over Yue Yuan

Katie Boulter is first into the final of the 2024 Hong Kong Open which will take place on Sunday morning. She defeated Yue Yuan in three sets to book her spot 6-2, 5-7, 6-2.

Boulter finished strongly to defeat the Chinese ace in a repeat of their Australian Open meeting which was also won by the British Number One. She reached the semi-finals in Tokyo losing to Sofia Kenin. But she has converted that good form into a final.

Albeit a tough one no matter who wins through with Leylah Fernandez or Diana Shnaider awaiting in the top tie of the semi-finals. Albeit it could've been a lot easier for Boulter. She was in a commanding position in the second set only for a slump to allow Yuan to take a break point. Another error handed her the game who went suddenly back into contention.

Yuan made it 6-5 in the second set and kept the pressure on Boulter striking on break point to seal the set and force a decider. But Boulter stayed resolute and calm amid the task ahead. She wrong-footed Yuan in the opening game of the third set to seize the first game. She held serve in the next game and broke again and looked to be rising once more. However Yuan made her work hard.

Boulter though went 4-0 up and despite Yuan clawing two games back, Boulter surged towards the finish landing an ace to claim the third set and set up a final spot.

"That was an unbelievable match," Boulter said as per Sky Sports. "She makes it so hard to win any point in the match. I just had to keep believing, keep fighting and try and find a way through.

"I managed to find a way so I'm really happy with that.

"I just wanted to finish my year on a career high [ranking], which is why today meant so much to me."