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Olympic Games

Paris, France 26 July - 11 August 2024

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Heather Watson and Katie Boulter interacting on courtt during the women's doubles at the Olympics
GB Teams

2024 Paris Olympics: Katie Boulter & Heather Watson stun sixth seeds to reach quarter-finals

• 2 MINUTE READ

Katie Boulter and Heather Watson’s journey in Paris took another step forward on Wednesday evening as they booked their place in the women’s doubles quarter-finals at the Olympics.

The Brits put in an impressive performance to beat sixth seed Brazilian team Beatriz Haddad Maia and Luisa Stefani 6-3, 6-4 in an hour and 26 minutes.

Watson’s dominance and at the net and Boulter’s strong serving proved more than enough for the Brits to get the win in only their third competitive tournament as a partnership.

They move on to face third seeds Jasmine Paolini and Sara Errani in the next round with a win guaranteeing a medal match over the weekend.

“We played great today, just like our first round we kept the same energy, positivity and mindset in wanting to enjoy it,” said Watson, who is competing at her fourth Olympic Games for Team GB.

“Of course, we’re focused and we’re giving 1000% but we want to smile through it. Really glad we were able to show our best tennis today.”

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Before the match had even started, it was obvious it wasn’t going to be your average second round doubles match. The packed out stands with fans from both sides created a partizan type atmosphere and one that the Brits relished.

Much to the disappointment of the Brazilian contingent, Boulter and Watson needed just one break against Stefani’s serve in both sets to clinch a solid overall victory against a strong team.

The Brits credit a lot of their success this week so far the incredible support for Team GB and their positive approach to every match.

“When we walked on that court we had goosebumps,” Watson said. “It was such an amazing atmosphere with the Brazilians and the Brits. It was absolutely packed.”

Boulter added: “I absolutely loved it, I actually really enjoy those matches (with the noisy crowds). I had a similar match against Bea (Haddad Maia) in Miami and I enjoyed every second of it, I love it when people bring the atmosphere.

“I felt like we rose to the occasion today and played some really good tennis. Those girls are not easy to beat, especially with a crowd like that behind them. The GB crowd did a great job to counteract that, it was awesome.

“I can definitely speak for myself when I say in my singles I try to do that a lot (smile), going out and enjoying it and my tennis will come. I think we’re very similar in that aspect, both smiling and enjoying the moment, these don’t happen the often.

“The Olympics is one of the biggest events in the world and it’s a long way to the next one so we might as well make the most of this one."

Boulter and Watson are one of two British teams in the doubles quarter-finals in Paris, after Andy Murray and Dan Evans once again saved multiple match points to seal a comeback win on Tuesday.

“The whole team environment has been amazing from everyone this week,” said Watson.

“The drama and the way they (Murray and Evans) are coming through is like a movie, it’s so good. We will definitely be watching and supporting them tomorrow.”

Boulter and Watson are first on Court Simonne-Mathieu tomorrow, while Murray and Evans are fourth on Court Suzanne-Lenglen against third seeds Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul.

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