Physical Health versus World Standing - Boulter's Melbourne Grand Slam Dilemma
British Katie Boulter says she feels she has to "decide between my physical health and my world standing" as the race continues for a place in the upcoming January Australian Open main draw.
While the regular WTA Tour competitive period is over, there are still position points to be earned in South American nations, Argentina, Ecuador and European destinations.
The female entry list for the initial Grand Slam of the forthcoming season will be determined by the global standings of 8 December, which could present a difficult choice for players near the cut.
Injury Concerns
Former British number one Boulter tore an groin injury in her final event of the year in Hong Kong last month, and is now evaluating whether to compete in the WTA 125 secondary tournament in European venues, the European nation, in the opening days of December.
The athlete's current physical issue, and the fact she would need to achieve at least three matches in Angers to boost her standing, means she may probably ultimately not participating.
Contrasting Methods
In comparison, men's competitors are not facing the equivalent dilemma, as for the initial instance the men's Australian Open entry list will be created from this week's standings, which is the ATP's standard year-end ranking date.
The modification is aimed at discouraging players from chasing standing points during what is essentially the rest interval.
Training Transitions
This year has been a difficult one for Boulter.
She won only fourteen professional major tournament contests and currently parted ways with instructor Biljana Veselinovic after a lengthy collaboration in which she captured several WTA championships.
"Biljana is an outstanding coach, and an remarkably good individual as well, which produces circumstances particularly challenging," Boulter commented.
The pursuit for a different trainer is currently ongoing, looking for an individual who has high-level expertise as Boulter maintains the belief she can be a world-class athlete.
Future Goals
"Progressing with a replacement instructor, a key aspect I'm very clear on is that they are going to be an individual who has extensive expertise in how to advance to the highest echelon of this profession," she said.
"I've been positioned as high as 23 and I know I can get back there. I am not convinced my level has diminished, I feel the steadiness needs to develop.
"My aim is not merely to be placed 50, 40, 30, 20 - we've accomplished that. The goal is to be among 20."