Heavy rainfall disrupted play at the Japan Open, but Katie Boulter bounced back to secure a decisive 6-3, 6-1 victory against Himeno Sakatsume. The match, which took place in Osaka, marked Boulter's return after a challenging period with only three matches played since September 30.

The encounter began on Monday but was interrupted by torrential rain with Sakatsume leading 2-1 in the first set. After a brief resumption, another delay occurred, forcing both players to return on Tuesday to complete the contest. When play resumed, Boulter showcased her dominance, winning seven of eight service games and converting five of nine break points.

This victory improves Boulter's record to 20-20 over her last 40 matches, providing a much-needed confidence boost as she prepares to face Viktorija Golubic for a spot in the quarter-finals.

In other news, Iga Swiatek has withdrawn from the Ningbo Open due to a left thigh injury, complicating her chances for the upcoming WTA Finals. Swiatek, a six-time major champion, expressed her need to rest and recover after struggling in recent matches, particularly her semi-final loss at the Wuhan Open. The withdrawal puts her in contention for a spot in the finals alongside Karolina Muchova and Marta Kostyuk, with implications for the season-ending tournament at Indian Wells starting November 8.