British tennis superstar Katie Boulter will break into the world’s top 25 for the first time in her career after reaching the Hong Kong Open final.

The 28-year-old fought to a 6-2 5-7 6-2 three-set victory over China’s Yuan Yue on Saturday.

It means Boulter is now guaranteed to reach 23rd at a minimum when the WTA rankings are updated on Monday.

The British No.1, who is currently 29th in the world, can climb even higher with victory over Diana Shnaider in the final on Sunday.

It shatters her previous best of 27th – and marks an astonishing career turnaround over the past 18 months.

As recently as 2023, Boulter was languishing outside the top 150 and facing an uncertain future in the game.

She was visibly emotional and had to wipe away tears during her on-court interview.

“That was an unbelievable match,” said Boulter.

“She makes it so hard. I just had to keep believing, keep fighting and try and find a way through.

“I’m a little grumpy today, I’m a little tired, but I managed to find a way so I’m really happy with that.

“I’m super excited just to have a go [in the final]. I wanted to finish my year on a career high, which is why today meant so much to me.

“I’ve got nothing to lose tomorrow and I’m just going to swing free and enjoy it for me.”

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Boulter has already won two WTA Tour titles this season – in San Diego and Nottingham.

She is now looking to maintain her record of never losing a tour-level final.

Boulter faces Russian top seed Shnaider, who beat Canada’s defending champion Leylah Fernandez 6-4 6-2 in Saturday’s second semi-final.

It promises to be a blockbuster match between the tournament’s top two seeds.