Boulter Advances at Miami Open After Tauson Retires

Gauff and Sabalenka also secure victories in challenging matches

Mar. 22, 2026 at 8:38pm

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Katie Boulter is through to the third round of the Miami Open after a challenging match against Clara Tauson, which ended with the Danish player retiring due to injury. Coco Gauff and world number one Aryna Sabalenka also progressed, demonstrating resilience in their respective matches.

Why it matters

The retirement of Clara Tauson adds to a growing concern within the professional tennis circuit about the increasing number of player injuries. Factors like the competitive nature of the sport, demanding travel schedules, and unpredictable weather conditions contribute to this trend, raising questions about how to better protect the health and wellbeing of elite athletes.

The details

Boulter and Tauson faced a disrupted match schedule due to inclement weather. Despite a slow start, Boulter demonstrated resilience, recovering from a 5-4 deficit in the first set to win the tie-break 7-4. She then secured the second set 6-4, showcasing her determination. However, the match concluded unexpectedly when Tauson called for the physiotherapist at the start of the third set, leading to her withdrawal. Elsewhere, Coco Gauff overcame Elisabetta Cocciaretto in a three-set match, and world number one Aryna Sabalenka defeated Ann Li in a match lasting over an hour and 42 minutes.

  • The match between Boulter and Tauson was disrupted by multiple rain delays.

The players

Katie Boulter

A British professional tennis player who is through to the third round of the Miami Open.

Clara Tauson

A Danish professional tennis player who retired from her match against Boulter due to injury.

Coco Gauff

An American professional tennis player who overcame Elisabetta Cocciaretto in a three-set match.

Aryna Sabalenka

The world number one professional tennis player who defeated Ann Li in a match lasting over an hour and 42 minutes.

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What they’re saying

“It was a complete battle – some ugly tennis and ugly conditions as well, but you have to find a way. Unfortunately she couldn't finish but it is what it is. It's never the way you seek to win, but happy to be through to the next round.”

— Katie Boulter

“This week made me realize how much I love the sport, even when it's tough.”

— Coco Gauff

What’s next

The winner of the Boulter-Tauson match will face either Karolina Muchova or Camila Osorio in the next round.

The takeaway

The increasing number of player injuries in elite tennis highlights the need for governing bodies and players to focus on preventative measures, such as enhanced training regimes, improved recovery protocols, strategic scheduling, and the exploration of more consistent and safer court surfaces to protect the health and wellbeing of athletes competing at the highest level.