Katie Boulter has officially called time on her working relationship with long-time coach Biljana Veselinovic, closing a chapter that defined the best — and most turbulent — spell of her career.
The 29-year-old British No.1 confirmed the news on Thursday, revealing she has parted ways with the Serbian coach after two seasons together. Their collaboration began in 2023 and produced some of Boulter’s greatest milestones, including three WTA titles and a rise to a career-high ranking of World No. 23 earlier this year.
However, a run of injuries and inconsistent form has left her current ranking at World No. 100, placing her on the brink of losing direct entry into January’s Australian Open — the same tournament where her fiancé, Alex de Minaur, will lead Australia’s home hopes.
“Grateful forever, even when it’s time to move on”
Announcing the split on Instagram, Boulter didn’t specify whether the decision was mutual but penned a heartfelt message of thanks.
“Some chapters are hard to close, but the gratitude stays forever.
Thank you, Bills, for guiding me and helping me reach some of the best moments of my career — on and off the court.”
The post featured a carousel of memories — including training shots, trophy celebrations, and Veselinovic pictured alongside de Minaur during tournaments — a reminder of how tight-knit the pair had become within Team Boulter.
Messages of support pour in
The announcement sparked an outpouring of affection from fellow players and friends.
Harriet Dart replied: “What a lady!!!” while Sonay Kartal joked, “I’m gonna miss seeing her trousers.” Former British No.1 Laura Robson added: “Love ya Bils,” and Daria Kasatkina responded with tearful emojis.
Veselinovic, one of the most respected female coaches on tour, had previously praised Boulter’s determination and talent.
“I always believed Katie could be a top-20 player,” she said in 2024. “She’s got clean technique, great instincts, and a work ethic that keeps her improving. She made big steps faster than I expected.”
Injury setbacks and form struggles
The separation comes at a low point for Boulter. Since reaching the second round at Wimbledon, she’s managed only three wins at WTA level and has not advanced beyond the last 32 in any event since June’s Nottingham Open.
Her latest heartbreak came at the Hong Kong Open, where she was forced to retire mid-match against 20-year-old Alexandra Eala. After calling the trainer and attempting to continue, Boulter broke down in tears and embraced her opponent before leaving the court.
Eala later paid tribute:
“It’s the end of the season and everyone’s running on fumes. I just hope Katie recovers well and looks back with pride — she’s had a strong year despite everything.”
Following the match, Boulter shared a candid update on her physical and mental fatigue:
“The past few weeks have been rough. I’ve loved my time in Asia, but playing through pain is draining. Just keeping it real — it’s been a lot.”
Where does Boulter go from here?
The decision to part with Veselinovic suggests Boulter may be seeking a fresh start heading into 2026. Whether she appoints a new coach before the Australian summer swing remains unclear, but with her ranking precariously positioned, every match between now and December could prove crucial.
If she slips any lower, she’ll be forced to navigate the qualifying rounds at Melbourne Park — a prospect she’ll be eager to avoid after her main-draw success earlier this season.
Still, few doubt her ability to rebound. Boulter has weathered long injury layoffs before and always found a way back into contention. As one era closes, the challenge is to rediscover the fearless, free-swinging tennis that made her Britain’s brightest hope not long ago.
“Every ending creates space for something new,” she wrote in a follow-up story.
And for Katie Boulter, that next chapter starts now.
