LONDON — The historic return of women’s tennis to Queen’s Club after a 52-year absence was nothing short of spectacular. Packed crowds, electrifying performances, and a British feel-good story culminated in a tournament that will be remembered for years. From the rise of "Boultucanu" to the home comforts of British success, here’s how the first women’s event at Queen’s since 1971 unfolded.
A Historic Return
The LTA’s Rothesay Classic marked the first WTA event at Queen’s Club since Margaret Court lifted the title in 1971. The tournament, part of the LTA’s efforts to elevate women’s tennis in the UK, drew record crowds and showcased world-class talent. "It’s a dream to play here," said British No. 1 Katie Boulter, who became a fan favorite throughout the week.
The event’s significance wasn’t lost on the players or organizers. With a prize money increase and a prime spot in the grass-court season, Queen’s provided a perfect warm-up for Wimbledon. The atmosphere was electric, with fans filling the stands daily, proving the demand for women’s tennis at the iconic venue.
The Rise of "Boultucanu"
The tournament’s standout storyline was the emergence of "Boultucanu"—the nickname given to the British duo of Katie Boulter and Emma Raducanu. While Raducanu didn’t compete due to injury, Boulter carried the home hopes with flair, thrilling crowds with her aggressive baseline game and charismatic presence.
Boulter’s run to the semifinals was a highlight, including a dramatic three-set win over former world No. 1 Karolína Plíšková. "The crowd carried me through," Boulter said after the match. "Playing at home with this support is something I’ll never forget."
Packed Crowds & British Energy
The tournament’s success was amplified by its record attendance. Over 30,000 fans flocked to Queen’s across the week, a testament to the growing popularity of women’s tennis in the UK. The British crowd brought unmatched energy, creating a festival-like atmosphere.
- Record attendance: Over 30,000 fans across the week.
- Sold-out sessions: Key matches, including Boulter’s semifinal, saw packed stands.
- Family-friendly vibe: The LTA’s initiatives, like free entry for kids, boosted turnout.
The tournament also saw a surge in social media engagement, with #RothesayClassic trending nationally. Fans embraced the event’s blend of high-quality tennis and accessibility, setting a new benchmark for future editions.
A Fitting Champion
In the end, it was American Jessica Pegula who lifted the trophy, defeating Russia’s Daria Kasatkina in a thrilling final. Pegula’s victory capped off a week of stellar performances, but the real winner was women’s tennis itself. "This event shows the depth and excitement of the WTA Tour," Pegula said. "I hope we’re back here for many years to come."
Looking Ahead
The success of the 2024 Rothesay Classic has already sparked discussions about expanding the event. With the LTA committed to growing women’s tennis, Queen’s could become a permanent fixture in the WTA calendar. "This is just the beginning," said LTA CEO Scott Lloyd. "We want to build on this momentum."
For British fans, the tournament offered a glimpse of a bright future. With Boulter’s rise, Raducanu’s eventual return, and the continued growth of the sport, Queen’s has cemented its place as a cornerstone of the grass-court season.
As the curtains closed on this historic week, one thing was clear: women’s tennis at Queen’s is here to stay. The packed crowds, the "Boultucanu" buzz, and the home comforts made it a tournament to remember—and a sign of even greater things to come.