'Relaxed' Boulter reaches Hong Kong semi-finals

Katie Boulter has won the WTA 500 event in San Diego and the Nottingham Open this year

British number one Katie Boulter powered through to the Hong Kong Open semi-finals with a 6-4 6-0 win over Anastasia Zakharova.

Boulter, ranked 29 in the world rankings, saved two break points in the seventh game of a tight first set, before making the crucial break herself in the 10th.

The second set was one-sided with Boulter winning it in just 30 minutes. The highlight was a stunning cross-court forehand after a lengthy rally in the fourth game.

"The first set I think I was on another planet," said Boulter, who also reached the Pan Pacific Open semi-finals last week.

"She was playing some good tennis. I picked up at 5-3 and played some really good stuff after that. I was free and relaxed on the court."

Second seed Boulter will play Yue Yuan in the semi-finals after the Chinese sixth seed beat American Sofia Kenin 6-3 6-3.

The 28-year-old is seeking a third WTA Tour title this season after victories in Nottingham and San Diego.