Sonay Kartal makes rapid rise to British number one after slow recovery from back injury

A comeback after months away

Kartal’s back problem began at Indian Wells in March, when she was ranked 54th in the world. She was sidelined for six months or more and did not return to competitive tennis until less than a month ago.

She described spending much of her first month at home in bed, with some days when pain made walking difficult. Six months earlier, she said she could not stand to brush her teeth without being in agony.

Wuhan run lifts her ranking

Kartal used a protected injury ranking, available to players absent for at least six months, to compete in Wuhan. She defeated a series of accomplished opponents, including current top-10 players and former Grand Slam champions, before losing in the final to French Open runner-up Maja Chwalinska.

A boost for British tennis

Kartal has reached the third round at Wimbledon twice, in 2024 and again the following year. Her Wuhan performance offered further evidence that she can compete at elite level, despite not having the height and power common among many leading players.

Her rise comes alongside Arthur Fery’s run to the Wimbledon semi-finals, providing a bright spot for British tennis fans. The report says Kartal has the tools to establish herself inside the world’s top 50.

Team effort behind recovery

After receiving the Wuhan runners-up trophy, Kartal thanked coach Ben Reeves, fitness coach Ian Aylward and physiotherapist Dani Gillanders. She said their support in restoring her fitness and addressing her back made the week especially meaningful.

The protected ranking gave Kartal a chance to rebuild her position after a prolonged absence. Her rapid return to the British top spot gives her ranking recovery added significance for the 2027 season.