Harriet Dart Secures Grand Slam Win at US Open After 19-Month Drought

Harriet Dart from Great Britain has marked a significant milestone by securing her first Grand Slam singles victory in 19 months at the US Open. The British qualifier fought back to defeat American Peyton Stearns in a hard-fought match, showcasing her resilience on the court.

Dart, cheered on by family members at what she describes as her "home away from home," overcame a set and a break deficit to win the match with scores of 3-6, 6-3, 6-2. This victory propels her into the second round of the tournament, a stage she has reached for the third time in her career.

Prior to this win, Dart had not triumphed in the main draw of a Grand Slam since the 2025 Australian Open. Her journey to this point has been challenging, as she struggled to qualify for several major tournaments and faced early exits at Wimbledon despite receiving wildcards.

The match was a rollercoaster, with Dart initially unable to convert break points and facing pressure from Stearns. However, as Stearns's performance fluctuated, Dart capitalized on the opportunity to turn the match in her favor, ultimately sealing the win after nearly two and a half hours of play.

Dart's victory is also a testament to her collaboration with former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli, who has been coaching her since January. Dart expressed gratitude for the experience and insights Bartoli brings, which she believes are helping her improve her game. Next, Dart will face 25th seed Marie Bouzkova in the second round, continuing her quest for success at the US Open.