Boulter & Watson reach women’s doubles quarter-finals

Katie Boulter and Heather Watson advanced to the quarter-finals of the Olympic tennis women’s doubles with a straight-set win over Brazilian duo Beatriz Haddad Maia and Luisa Stefani.

After two dramatic wins from compatriots Andy Murray and Dan Evans in the men’s doubles, this was much more straightforward for GB’s women as they won 6-3 6-4.

The British duo struck early in the first set and held on to their advantage comfortably, but were challenged in the second set as the Brazilians put the pressure on, forcing them to save two break points.

The pair responded strongly, breaking the Brazilians and saving more break points before closing out the match on their third match point. Boulter used her power from the baseline, leaving Watson to show off her speed and agility at the net.

They will next face the third seeds from Italy – Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini, who have both reached the French Open semi-finals.