Boulter knocked out by Cirstea in Japan Open second round

Britain’s Katie Boulter exited the Japan Open after a straight-sets defeat to Romania’s Sorana Cirstea in Osaka, Sport360NG reports.

Boulter, ranked 59th in the world, was beaten 6-3 6-1 in just over an hour by the experienced Cirstea, who sits eight places above her in the rankings.

The Brit had stunned world number 17 Linda Noskova in the opening round, but was unable to replicate that form as Cirstea took control early, breaking three times in the first set to move 3-1 ahead and closing it out confidently.

The Romanian dominated the second set, racing to a 5-0 lead. Although Boulter managed to claw back one break, she was immediately broken again as Cirstea sealed her spot in the quarter-finals.

In other action, Japan’s Naomi Osaka battled through a physical test to overcome defending champion Suzan Lamens 7-6 (8-6) 3-6 6-2.

Osaka required a medical timeout late in the match while leading 5-0 in the final set and returned to the court with her left thigh strapped before completing the win.

“It was definitely really difficult,” Osaka said afterwards. “I’m kind of sorry for my attitude but I’m really glad to have won.”

She ended the on-court interview with a smile, adding: “Can I go? My leg is really hurting.”