Klugman Loses WTA Debut to World No.27 Putintseva

GB’s Klugman Beaten on WTA Main-Draw Debut

British teenage talent Hannah Klugman faced a tough introduction to the WTA Tour, losing 6-2 6-2 to world number 27 Yulia Putintseva in the first round of the Nottingham Open.

The 16-year-old recently reached the French Open girls’ final and is one of Britain’s most highly-rated juniors, having previously won the prestigious Orange Bowl at just 14. But her first taste of senior-level action on grass proved challenging.

“A Tough One Against a Top Player”

Facing the in-form Putintseva, who won the 2023 Birmingham Classic, Klugman struggled with her serve, registering five double faults and winning just 28% of her second-serve points.

“It was my first match on grass after a long clay season, and I felt very uncomfortable,” said Klugman.

“The crowd was amazing. I just wish I could have played better.”

Putintseva broke Klugman’s serve four times in the first set, which featured six breaks in total. Despite a better movement in the second, Klugman was undone by a cruel net cord at 4-2 and eventually lost in 70 minutes.

Other Nottingham Open Results

• Clara Tauson defeated Kimberly Birrell 7-5 2-6 6-2

• Tatjana Maria, fresh off a win at Queen’s, withdrew from her opening match

WTA Berlin Round-Up

• Ons Jabeur advanced with a 7-6(5) 6-1 win over Caroline Dolehide

• Mirra Andreeva fell to Magdalena Frech 2-6 7-5 6-0