In getting over the line, Boulter now joins Dart, Emma Raducanu, Lily Miyazaki and Sonay Kartal – marking the first time that five British women have reached the second round in SW19 since 1987.
A highly-anticipated all-British battle against Dart now awaits the 27-year-old on Thursday, in what is set to be a must-watch match. The British No.1 leads the head-to-head 6-1 and will take confidence into the match-up after claiming victory in their most recent meeting at the Rothesay Open Nottingham last month.
“Playing a Brit in the UK on the grass is never an easy draw – I’m expecting an absolute battle” Boulter added.
“We’ve played quite a few times before, so I’ll be looking at those and thinking about what I’m going to do going into it. For me, it’s about playing the tennis ball not the person, we’re obviously Billie Jean King Cup teammates on the court so I’ve got to try and forget that and focus on the tennis.”
Meanwhile, Britain’s newly crowned men’s No.1 Draper came out on the winning side of a marathon match against Mikael Ymer, ending 3-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 to set up a second-round meeting against compatriot Cam Norrie.
After missing out on last year’s tournament due to injury, the 28 seed returned to action in dramatic fashion – coming back from a set down to eventually scrape through in five sets after three hours and 17 minutes.
“I missed it here last year, not being able to play. I know you probably wanted to see Andy out here but you were stuck with me instead.
“I love playing in front of loads of people so thank you, it really helped me out here. There were some nervy moments but I really appreciate all of the support, it means a lot.”
The 22-year-old was originally scheduled to play on Court 2 but after Andy Murray withdrew from the singles draw earlier this morning, Draper was gifted the opportunity to compete on the most prestigious stage in world tennis.
The rising star has frequently credited the former world No.1 for his support through the early stages of his career and tonight’s show felt like a fitting tribute to his sporting idol under the lights on Centre Court.
“What an honour, thinking of the number ones who came before me – Tim (Henman), Andy (Murray), Cam Norrie. A word on Andy, I wouldn’t be here without Andy he’s an incredible guy off the court, so funny so genuine and one of a kind. What a competitor and what a champion so thank you very much”
Draper will now re-focus his attention to his upcoming match against his predecessor Norrie, after he eased to a straight sets victory over Facundo Diaz Acosta 7-5, 7-5, 6-3.
This will mark their third ATP tour meeting, with Norrie winning both of their previous matches at the cinch Championships (2021) and the Miami Open (2022). However, with Draper carrying confidence and momentum after clinching his first tour-level title at the Boss Open and downing reigning Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz at the Queen’s Club, it’s safe to say anything can happen in SW19.
The Championships, Wimbledon results & updates
Get all the latest results and updates from the British players competing at The Championships, Wimbledon between 1-14 July.
Latest results
Sophie Anderson, a UK-based writer, is your guide to the latest trends, viral sensations, and internet phenomena. With a finger on the pulse of digital culture, she explores what’s trending across social media and pop culture, keeping readers in the know about the latest online sensations.
