Hong Kong Open: Katie Boulter powers through to semi-finals

British number one Katie Boulter powered through to the Hong Kong Open semi-finals with a 6-4 6-0 win over Anastasia Zakharova.

Boulter, who is a career-high 27 in the world rankings, saved two break points in the seventh game of a tight first set, before making the crucial break herself in the 10th.

The second set was one-sided with Boulter winning it in just 30 minutes. The highlight was a stunning cross-court forehand after a lengthy rally in the fourth game.

“The first set I think I was on another planet,” said Boulter, who also reached the Pan Pacific Open semi-finals last week.

“She was playing some good tennis. I picked up at 5-3 and played some really good stuff after that. I was free and relaxed on the court.”

Second seed Boulter will play Yue Yuan in the semi-finals after the Chinese sixth seed beat American Sofia Kenin 6-3 6-3.

The 28-year-old is seeking a third WTA Tour win this season after victories in Nottingham and San Diego.