In a bold move to reignite her professional tennis career, British player Katie Boulter has strategically partnered with renowned coach Michael Joyce, a veteran mentor known for guiding world-class athletes to unprecedented success.

Joyce, who previously spent six years coaching Maria Sharapova during her peak years—including her US Open and Australian Open victories—brings extensive Grand Slam expertise to Boulter's team. The 52-year-old American has a proven track record of elevating players' performance, having worked with champions like Victoria Azarenka and Johanna Konta.

Boulter, currently ranked as British number four and outside the world's top 100, sees this collaboration as a critical turning point in her career. After splitting from her previous coach Biljana Veselinovic, she's determined to reclaim her former ranking of world number 23 and push even higher.

The partnership, initially confirmed in Auckland where Boulter has secured a main draw wildcard for the ASB Classic, represents more than just a coaching change. It signals a strategic commitment to consistency and professional growth, with Boulter explicitly stating her ambition to break into the top 20.

Despite recent challenges—including a torn abductor that limited her tournament appearances and potentially complicated her Australian Open participation—Boulter remains optimistic. Her upcoming marriage to world number seven Alex de Minaur and this new coaching arrangement suggest a transformative period in her athletic journey.

Joyce's experience working with multiple Grand Slam champions, including helping Ashlyn Krueger reach the top 30, provides Boulter with invaluable mentorship. Their collaboration represents a promising opportunity for mutual professional development and potential tennis renaissance.

With her eyes firmly set on climbing the rankings and maintaining her competitive spirit, Katie Boulter enters 2024 with renewed determination and a powerful strategic ally in Michael Joyce.