Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli has shared a heartfelt message with Harriet Dart after guiding her to her maiden WTA title victory. Dart secured the Guangzhou Open championship by coming through the qualifying rounds and defeating Austrian teenager Lilli Tagger 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the final.
A Milestone Victory and Rankings Boost
The triumph marks a major career milestone for the 30-year-old Briton, who claimed her first WTA singles trophy. The title win also delivers a significant rankings boost, ensuring Dart a direct entry into the main draw of the 2027 Australian Open.
Dart has been working under the guidance of Bartoli since May. Following the victory, Bartoli posted a lengthy tribute on Instagram detailing the rigorous preparation behind the scenes, highlighting the grueling practice sessions, fitness work with Dario Gonfiantini, and the player’s willingness to adapt and improve.
Reflecting on her win on social media, Dart expressed disbelief at capturing her first WTA singles title and thanked supporters for their backing. The post drew congratulatory messages from fellow players including Eva Lys, Heather Watson, and Billie Jean King Cup captain Anne Keothavong. Bartoli responded further by writing that she was immensely proud and declaring that their journey together was only beginning.
Praise From Greg Rusedski
Former US Open finalist Greg Rusedski also offered praise during his podcast, emphasizing the hard work required to achieve a maiden title and describing final opponent Lilli Tagger as a future top-five player.
Rusedski attributed the success partly to momentum within British women’s tennis, pointing to strong recent performances by Sonay Kartal and Katie Boulter. He praised Dart’s perseverance and noted that the recent string of positive results for British women highlights a strong period for the sport.
Following her success in Guangzhou, Dart withdrew from her next scheduled appearance at the Chennai Open, choosing to conclude her season on a high note.
