In a quarterfinal match defined by dramatic swings in momentum, Jasmine Paolini showed why she is the top seed in Mexico, overcoming a disastrous first set to stay on track for her first title of 2026.
The world number 7 looked shell-shocked in the early stages as an in-form Katie Boulter, riding a seven-match winning streak, dominated the court with clinical precision. Boulter, who had already claimed a significant lead over Beatriz Haddad Maia earlier in the week, swept the first set 6-0 in a display of power that left Paolini searching for answers.
However, the Italian’s characteristic tenacity came to light in the second set. Entering the tournament as a wild card to rebuild confidence after a difficult start to the season, Paolini began to lengthen rallies and target Boulter’s second serve more aggressively.
The tactical change paid off, as she broke the Englishwoman’s serve early in the second and third sets, eventually winning 12 of the final 18 games.
Despite Boulter’s strong start, helped by a Camila Osorio victory in the previous round, she was unable to match Paolini’s greater physical intensity as the humidity in Merida took its toll. Paolini now moves on to a semi-final with Spain’s Cristina Bucsa, looking to reach her first final of the year.
