Miami Open: Briton Katie Boulter knocked out in round one

She managed to get through to the third round at Indian Wells earlier this month on her return to action, but was no match for an in-form Stearns in Miami.

Boulter was broken three times in a row in the first set and although she showed a glimpse of promise in the second, her 23-year-old opponent soon took control to progress.

“Katie is a great player, it is always tough playing her,” said Stearns.

“I knew I had to stay on it and if I gave her anything she would take it.”