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British Katie Boulter admits she feels she has to "choose between my body and my ranking" as the race continues for a spot in next January's Australian Open primary competition.

While the standard WTA Tour competitive period is over, there are still position points to be gained in Latin American countries, regional locations, multiple sites and France.

The female competitor lineup for the opening Grand Slam of the 2026 season will be based on the international positions of 8 December, which could create a dilemma for athletes near the cut.

Health Challenges

Previous British leading competitor Boulter tore an groin injury in her final event of the year in Hong Kong last month, and is now evaluating whether to compete in the WTA 125 development competition in European venues, France, in the opening days of December.

Boulter's recent injury, and the situation she would need to achieve at least three matches in the French tournament to enhance her position, means she may likely eventually not competing.

Varying Approaches

In comparison, men's competitors are not facing the same dilemma, as for the first time the men's Australian Open participant roster will be drawn up from this week's standings, which is the ATP's formal year-end standing calculation.

The modification is aimed at preventing players from chasing ranking points during what is fundamentally the break period.

Professional Adjustments

This season has been a demanding one for Boulter.

She secured just 14 elite main-draw contests and currently separated with trainer Biljana Veselinovic after a three-year working relationship in which she won multiple WTA victories.

"Biljana is an outstanding coach, and an extremely excellent person as well, which produces circumstances very difficult," Boulter commented.

The quest for a new trainer is well under way, seeking a professional who has elite expertise as Boulter maintains the belief she can be a top-20 athlete.

Future Goals

"Progressing with a different trainer, one thing I'm very clear on is that they are going to be someone who has extensive expertise in how to advance to the highest echelon of this profession," she explained.

"I've been positioned as elevated as twenty-three and I am confident I can get back to that level. I am not convinced my standard has disappeared, I think the steadiness should improve.

"My objective is not merely to be ranked fifty, 40, thirty, 20 - we've been there. The goal is to be among 20."