Heather Watson set for first tournament of 2026 after six months out injured

Heather Watson hasn’t been seen on the professional circuit since her first-round qualifying loss at the 2025 US Open, but her return to tennis appears to be just around the corner.

Back in October, she stepped away from the sport after a tendon issue in her left glute forced her into what she called a “forced break.” Now though, she’s looking ready to get back into action.

Her absence has seen her ranking slip all the way down to World No. 281 – her lowest position since way back in 2009.

Watson is looking to get things moving again and has put herself forward for the qualifiers of an upcoming WTA 500 event.

Heather Watson joins Merida Open qualifying field

Watson is set to travel to Mexico for the Merida Open qualifying rounds, where she’ll be joined by familiar faces like Zhang Shuai and Priscilla Hon.

Taking to Instagram, Watson said: “Beginning my return to Tour after six months out with injury in this beautiful place. See you on court tomorrow.”

She faces a tough opening test against Diane Parry, a French player with a strong Grand Slam record from last year.

Parry hit career-best results in 2024, reaching the third round at both Wimbledon and the US Open.

If Watson makes it through, she’ll be stepping onto new ground, having never played in the main draw of the Merida Open before.

Another British player set to join Watson in Merida

Watson isn’t the only Brit heading to Mexico, as Katie Boulter has also entered the tournament.

Boulter has shown strong form throughout 2026, highlighted by her title win at the Ostrava Open earlier this year.

She’s received a wild card entry for Merida as she works to climb back up the rankings after starting the year outside the top 100.

Currently ranked 75th in the world, Boulter sits fourth among British women behind Fran Jones, Sonay Kartal, and Emma Raducanu.

She’ll be joined in Merida by Jasmine Paolini, Emma Navarro, and Diana Schnaider.

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