It’s a fresh chapter for British tennis as Katie Boulter and Emma Raducanu team up for the very first time on the WTA tour this week.
Neither of them has played doubles together before, but both are eager to get more matches on grass under their belts — and what better place to do that than right here in London?
On Monday, these two Brits will take to the courts at The Queen’s Club, marking the first time women have competed at the venue since way back in 1973.
It’s a special moment not just for Boulter and Raducanu, but for British tennis fans hungry for homegrown talent on home soil.
From Conversations to Court: How the Pairing Came About
Boulter explained on Sunday how this new doubles team came together.
“Emma and I have been wanting to play doubles for a while,” she said.
“We’ve talked about it many times, but for various reasons it hadn’t worked out until now.”
Their decision actually happened right where they’re set to play their first match.
“We were here at Queen’s, practicing on the clay courts, and thought, why not try the grass together?”
Boulter called the upcoming matches “extremely special,” praising Raducanu as a top player and hopeful this is the start of many more partnerships to come.
Different Paths on Team Britain
Though both players have appeared for Britain’s Billie Jean King Cup team, their roles have been quite different.
Boulter has often been the go-to for doubles, while Raducanu has mostly concentrated on singles.
With their recent clay court campaigns cut short at the French Open, both are determined to kick off their grass season on a high note at this historic venue.
Embracing the Legacy of Queen’s Club
For Boulter, the chance to play on grass at Queen’s — a place rich in tennis history — means a lot.
The women’s event is back for the first time in decades, setting the stage for a big moment.
“I’ve been here plenty of times watching matches, especially cheering on my fiancé Alex de Minaur from the player’s box,” she said.
“I’ve always thought how amazing it would be to play here.”
She spoke of the energy the packed courts generate and the anticipation of playing in front of a supportive British crowd.
“I expect a lot of emotions to come up when I step on that court.”
The Comforts of Home Boost Confidence
One big perk of playing at home? Boulter says it’s simply being in familiar surroundings.
“I love being here,” she smiled.
“Sleeping in my own bed and making breakfast in the morning — those little things really do count.”
For both Boulter and Raducanu, this tournament at Queen’s Club offers a chance not only to sharpen their game but to connect deeply with home fans — and to write a new chapter in British tennis history together.