Katie BOULTER’s stunning fightback earns second title, conquering Marta KOSTYUK in San Diego Final

Katie Boulter (No. 49) staged a comeback after dropping the first set and defeated Marta Kostyuk (No. 34) with a scoreline of 5-7, 6-2, 6-2, securing her first WTA 500 title at the San Diego Open. In just her second final, the British player displayed resilience to overcome her opponent and ensured her new career-best ranking as world No. 27.

In the semifinals, the tournament still had the top two American seeds, but the local fans were left without representation in the final. Boulter ousted the third seed Emma Navarro (6-3, 6-1), and Kostyuk did the same with the first seed Jessica Pegula, marking her first victory against a top-5 player.

At the beginning of the match, Kostyuk appeared more aggressive than her opponent but also slightly more erratic. Both players secured consecutive breaks in the third and fourth games, maintaining a 2-2 tie. The Ukrainian improved her first serve and capitalized on another break opportunity to comfortably lead 5-2.

Kostyuk had her first set point with Boulter serving, but the British player managed to hold on. The Ukrainian then committed unforced errors and couldn't capitalize on her serve to close the set. After missing the chance to win the first set, Kostyuk became visibly frustrated, shouting at her team, while Boulter maintained focus to level the score at 5-5, saving four set points against her.

The Ukrainian managed to pull ahead with her serve and secured the break in the 12th game after seven set points, taking the set 7-5.

Boulter kept her composure and was more aggressive than her opponent in the second set. After both players held their opening service games, Kostyuk's inconsistency became evident as she lost her serve three times in a row. Despite conceding a break, the 27-year-old British player dominated, winning the set 6-2 in just 34 minutes.

Although Boulter's first serve was below 50%, it proved effective enough as she won 64% of those points. Additionally, she read her opponent's serve well, winning 61% of return points.

The third set unfolded as a battle of nerves, with Kostyuk once again appearing rushed and frustrated, committing errors, while Boulter maintained her composure. Boulter was flawless on serve this time, maintaining aggression and hitting several winners during the set.

The British player was particularly effective in crucial points, securing two breaks on her only two opportunities to close the set from her serve and claim the title with a 5-7, 6-2, 6-2 victory in a memorable week for Katie Boulter.