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Heather Watson falls in first round in Japan

Briton continues poor form as she fails in attempt to defend title

Heather Watson's defence of her Japan Open title lasted only one match as she was beaten by Puerto Rico’s Monica Puig.

Twelve months ago Watson, 21, became the first British woman to win a singles title on the WTA Tour for 24 years.

That helped her finish the year in the top 50 and she reached a career-high ranking of 39 in February.

But today’s result will see Watson, who lost 6-4 6-4, drop out of the top 100 when the rankings are updated next week.

Watson changed coaches after losing in the first round of Wimbledon, linking up with Jeremy Bates, but the partnership has yet to bear fruit.

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