Katie Boulter out of Australian Open after first-round defeat to player likened to Martina Hingis

Boulter, ranked 113 in the world, was quickly put under pressure as Bencic raced through the opening set in just 26 minutes. The Swiss player’s aggressive positioning and early ball striking left Boulter struggling to settle into the match.

The second set was more competitive. Boulter managed to swing the momentum midway through, breaking serve to level at 4-4 and briefly threaten a decider. However, a loose service game at 5-5 allowed Bencic to regain control, and she closed out the contest 6-0, 7-5. The result marked Bencic’s 12th consecutive win, equalling the longest streak of her career.

Hingis influence highlighted as Bencic looks ahead

During live coverage on TNT Sports, Great Britain Davis Cup captain Leon Smith highlighted the quality and variety in Bencic’s game, noting similarities with former world number one Martina Hingis. Smith pointed to Bencic’s ability to take the ball early, her strong serving numbers, and her use of angles and variation as standout features.

Bencic’s connection to Hingis runs deep, having trained with her from a very young age. The Swiss star has previously spoken about the influence Hingis had on her development, both technically and mentally, and how those early experiences shaped her signature style of play.

After the match, Bencic was quick to acknowledge Boulter’s qualities, describing her as an aggressive and dangerous opponent. She also explained that taking the ball early has always been central to her own game, something instilled by her first coach and inspired by Hingis’ approach.

With confidence high following a flawless United Cup campaign and a return to the top 10, Bencic now turns her focus to the second round, where she will face either Daria Kasatkina or Czech teenager Nikola Bartunkova, carrying strong momentum deeper into the Australian Open.