Harriet Dart believes she is growing into grass court form after a convincing opening round victory at the LTA’s Rothesay Open Nottingham.
Hampstead’s Dart, who is supported by the LTA’s Pro Scholarship Programme, eased past Canada’s Rebecca Marino 6-4 6-2 to safely seal her spot in the second round.
The 26-year-old and the Canadian had split their previous two meetings, with Marino prevailing in three sets when they last met in Dubai qualifying earlier this season.
Familiarity with her opponent’s game aided Dart on this occasion however, with the world No.143 able to seal a comprehensive victory against dangerous opposition.
“It wasn’t easy out there,” said Dart.
“Conditions were really tough and last time we played earlier on in the year I lost. I always knew it was going to be a really tough battle and I’m just really pleased to get away with the win.
“When we’re all similar rankings you’re bound to play each other a lot of times, but I’m just really happy to be able to get the win today.”
This was the 26-year-old’s third straight-sets win in Nottingham, having previously beaten Maddison Inglis and compatriot Eden Silva across two rounds of qualifying to reach the main draw.
That followed on from competing at the LTA’s Lexus Surbiton Trophy in London, where Dart won her opening round contest before pushing 2022 Wimbledon semi-finalist Tatjana Maria in a three-set battle.
And after some encouraging performances on the surface so far, Dart is beginning to grow in confidence with the summer season well and truly underway.
She added: “This is my fifth match on grass this season and I just feel like with every match I’m getting a little bit better.
“It’s about getting as many matches as possible across the next few weeks.”
For the latest action on the British summer grass court season, check out the LTA website
