Katie Boulter is entering a new phase in her tennis career after parting ways with her coach, Biljana Veselinovic, following a season marked by inconsistent performance and recurring injuries. The former British No. 1 made her decision public on social media, expressing her gratitude for Veselinovic’s guidance over the past two years, during which she reached a career-high ranking of 23 in 2024 and clinched three WTA titles.
In her announcement, Boulter reflected on the challenges of closing this chapter in her professional journey, noting that the memories created during their time together would remain cherished. While the specifics of the separation were not disclosed, she thanked Veselinovic for her support, both on and off the court.
The highlight of Boulter’s year was collaborating with Veselinovic, who had expressed optimism about Boulter’s abilities, predicting her potential to break into the top 30 and even the top 20. The Serbian coach had praised Boulter’s clean technique and physical strength but noted difficulties as the season progressed. This season, Boulter ended with a disappointing record, securing only 8 victories out of her last 21 main-draw matches and struggling to advance past the first round in several tournaments.
Her challenging year culminated at the Hong Kong Open, where she had to retire from her opening match against Alexandra Eala, visibly upset and in pain. Boulter later articulated her struggles on social media, revealing that playing through injuries had taken a toll on her mental and physical health.
Currently ranked 100 in the world, Boulter’s position leaves her vulnerable as she is now the fourth-ranked British female player, trailing behind Emma Raducanu, Sonay Kartal, and Fran Jones. With the Australian Open fast approaching in January, her ranking puts automatic qualification at risk if she continues to slide down the standings.
The year 2025 proved challenging overall for Boulter. Apart from making it to the second round in just three Grand Slam events, her performance was highlighted by helping Team Great Britain reach the semi-finals in the Billie Jean King Cup, despite a subsequent defeat to the United States. Additionally, her victory at the Trophee Clarins in Paris, her first clay court title, provided minimal ranking points.
Off the court, Boulter has openly discussed the impact of online criticism and abuse, sharing how it has affected her throughout her career. She admitted that comments about her appearance have been especially difficult to endure and that the escalation of negative feedback can be overwhelming.
In contrast, British No. 1 Emma Raducanu closed the season on a more positive note, maintaining her ranking at 29 despite missing the final weeks of play due to injury. The former US Open champion withdrew from her last two tournaments, dealing with back pain and other health issues, but achieved her best season since her Grand Slam triumph in 2021. Notably, she had significant victories against Top 10 players and impressed at the Miami Open, making it to the quarter-finals.
As the tennis world looks ahead to the Australian Open, both Boulter and Raducanu face distinct paths. Boulter remains determined to rebound from her struggles, while Raducanu aims to build on her promising return to form, seeking to solidify her position in the rankings as she approaches the new season.
