Harriet Dart revived her career under former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli
A first WTA title in Guangzhou
Dart claimed the Guangzhou Open title on Sunday, defeating rising Austrian teenager Lilli Tagger. The win was her first WTA title, and it capped an impressive second half of the season.
Her ranking is projected to rise to 83rd on Monday from 115th. Bartoli watched the final from home; Dart spoke with her soon after the win.
A partnership built in Dubai
Dart began working with Bartoli while ranked outside the top 160. They live near each other in Dubai and train together there during blocks when Dart is not travelling for tournaments.
Dart said Bartoli, 42, still hits the ball well in practice. She also described her coach as someone who prioritises her wellbeing as well as her development as a tennis player.
British players make gains
Keothavong said the players had capitalised and risen to the occasion despite the demands of a long season. Bartoli has coached several WTA players since retiring, including 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko.
Key points
- Harriet Dart won her first WTA title at the Guangzhou Open in China.
- Dart is projected to rise from 115th to 83rd in the rankings on Monday.
- She trains with former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli in Dubai.
- Dart had spent most of the past two seasons outside the top 100.