'A dream come true' | Boulter excited to partner up with Williams for doubles

British tennis star Katie Boulter has described the upcoming partnership with tennis legend Serena Williams as "a dream come true" following the announcement that the two will team up for an exhibition doubles event later this year. The 27-year-old from Leicester received the call from Williams' team last week and admits she struggled to contain her excitement.

Watch the highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQUKOY8D3IE

"I still cannot believe it happened. I woke up the next morning thinking it was a prank at first," Boulter revealed in an exclusive interview with tournaments.com. "Serena is someone I've watched my entire life. She's not just the greatest women's tennis player ever, she's an icon who changed the sport forever."

The exhibition event, scheduled for August at a prestigious London venue, will see Boulter learn from one of the most dominant doubles players in the sport's history. Williams won 23 Grand Slam singles titles and 14 doubles Majors throughout her illustrious career, partnering with sister Venus in numerous successful campaigns.

Boulter, currently ranked 46th in the world in singles, has been in the form of her life this season. She claimed her first WTA title in Mexico earlier this year and has already matched her best Grand Slam performance by reaching the third round at both the Australian Open and Roland Garros. However, this partnership represents uncharted territory for the British number two.

"We haven't actually practiced together yet, but we've been texting. She's been so encouraging and has already offered advice on doubles positioning and serve-volley combinations," Boulter added. "Just having the chance to pick her brain about the mental side of the game will be invaluable."

The exhibition will raise funds for the Williams sisters' foundation, which supports education and athletics programmes for underprivileged youth. Tickets are expected to sell out within minutes of release.