Britons Kartal and Miyazaki Move Closer to US Open Main Draw as Watson and Jubb Fall Short in Qualifying

 


Britons Kartal and Miyazaki Move Closer to US Open Main Draw as Watson and Jubb Fall Short in Qualifying

Sonay Kartal and Lily Miyazaki took significant steps toward securing spots in the US Open main draw, advancing to the final round of qualifying after impressive victories on Wednesday. However, it was a day of mixed results for British hopefuls as Heather Watson and Paul Jubb suffered defeats, ending their bids to compete at Flushing Meadows this year.

Kartal, aiming to reach the main draw in New York for the first time, delivered a commanding performance against Switzerland's Simona Waltert. The 21-year-old, currently ranked outside the world’s top 200, looked composed as she secured a 6-3, 6-2 win, keeping her dreams of a US Open debut alive.

Following Kartal’s win, Miyazaki showcased resilience and determination in a hard-fought comeback against Liechtenstein's Kathinka von Deichmann. After losing the first set 1-6, Miyazaki roared back with a 6-2, 6-2 victory, displaying grit and poise as she turned the match around. The 27-year-old now stands just one win away from her first-ever appearance in the US Open main draw.

Despite the encouraging results for Kartal and Miyazaki, it was a disappointing day for Watson, a seasoned campaigner who was bidding to return to the US Open main draw. The 31-year-old was outplayed by Belarusian second seed Aliaksandra Sasnovich, falling 6-1, 6-4 in straight sets. Watson’s defeat marks another setback in what has been a challenging season for the former British number one.

Meanwhile, Paul Jubb’s qualifying run came to an end in a three-set battle against Finland’s Otto Virtanen. The 23-year-old Brit fought valiantly but was ultimately edged out 6-3, 6-7 (3-7), 6-3, missing out on a place in the final round of qualifying.

There is still hope for more British representation in New York, with Billy Harris, Francesca Jones, and Jan Choinski set to compete later on Wednesday as they seek to join Kartal and Miyazaki in the final qualifying round.

To earn a spot in the US Open main draw, players must navigate three rounds of qualifying—a daunting challenge given the strength of the field. The main tournament kicks off on Monday, with several British stars already set to compete. Jack Draper and Dan Evans are confirmed entrants in the men’s singles, while Katie Boulter, Emma Raducanu, and Harriet Dart will fly the flag for Britain in the women’s competition.

As the US Open approaches, the focus will now shift to Kartal and Miyazaki as they aim to complete their qualifying campaigns and take their places alongside their compatriots in one of tennis’ biggest stages.