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Britain's Katie Boulter admits she feels she has to "pick between my body and my professional position" as the competition continues for a spot in the upcoming January Australian Open primary competition.

While the regular WTA Tour competitive period is over, there are still position points to be earned in Chile, Argentina, various venues and international tournaments.

The female entry list for the first Grand Slam of the 2026 season will be based on the world rankings of early December, which could present a challenging situation for athletes close to the qualification line.

Injury Concerns

Previous British top-ranked player Boulter experienced an hip muscle in her final event of the year in Hong Kong last period, and is now evaluating whether to play in the WTA 125 secondary tournament in European venues, France, in the opening days of December.

Boulter's ongoing health concern, and the reality she would need to win at least several wins in the European event to enhance her standing, means she may well eventually not playing.

Different Systems

In comparison, men's competitors are not confronting the same predicament, as for the initial instance the men's Australian Open entry list will be drawn up from present week's standings, which is the ATP's official year-end position determination.

The modification is intended to discouraging players from seeking standing points during what is essentially the break period.

Professional Adjustments

This year has been a difficult one for Boulter.

She secured just 14 elite main-draw contests and recently separated with trainer Biljana Veselinovic after a lengthy collaboration in which she won several WTA titles.

"Biljana is an outstanding coach, and an extremely good human as well, which creates situations particularly challenging," Boulter said.

The pursuit for a replacement trainer is currently ongoing, looking for a professional who has top-tier expertise as Boulter continues to think she can be a elite-level athlete.

Future Goals

"Progressing with a new coach, a key aspect I'm very clear on is that they are going to be an individual who has considerable expertise in how to make it to the highest echelon of this sport," she stated.

"I've been placed as elevated as twenty-three and I am confident I can get back to that level. I am not convinced my level has gone anywhere, I feel the consistency should enhance.

"My objective is not merely to be placed fifty, forty, 30, 20 - we've accomplished that. The goal is to be inside 20."