British Tennis Players Kartal, Boulter Exit US Open First Round

British tennis players Sonay Kartal and Katie Boulter both suffered first-round exits at the US Open amid challenging physical and mental conditions. Kartal, making her US Open main draw debut, battled full-body cramps and a knee issue during a dramatic three-set loss to 18th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia, who also experienced cramping in the final set, resulting in a slow and laborious finish. Despite her physical struggles, Kartal was determined to complete the match, demonstrating resilience despite the pain. Meanwhile, Boulter, who has faced a difficult season and a decline in form, lost to 27th seed Marta Kostyuk in straight sets, marking her sixth loss in seven matches since Wimbledon and leading to her drop outside the world’s top 50. Boulter openly discussed the mental toll of the sport, revealing she took a week off and worked with a psychologist to regain her focus and motivation. Both players showed fighting spirit, with Boulter saving multiple match points, but ultimately they could not overcome their respective challenges in New York.