‘Proud’ Qinwen Zheng surpasses ‘difficult group’ becomes 2nd Chinese women after Li Na to reach Semis of the WTA Finals
Qinwen Zheng steamrolled Italian Jasmine Paolini 6-1, 6-1 to book a spot in the semi-finals of the WTA Finals.
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Qinwen Zheng and Li Na (images via X)
Qinwen Zheng‘s extraordinary form this season is very much alive. The Australian Open runner-up defeated World No.4 Jasmine Paolini in the last Group match at the WTA Finals. The 22-year-old became the second Chinese woman since Li Na to qualify for the semifinals of the WTA Finals.
Indeed, Zheng has enjoyed a breakthrough 2024 season. The Chinese star won her first title of the year at the Palermo Ladies Open. She finished as runners-up at the Wuhan Open before winning the Japan Open recently. However, her most famous success was claiming the Olympic gold medal in Paris.
At the WTA Finals, she opened her campaign with a straight-set loss against World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka. Nevertheless, she did bounce back in her second match beating Elena Rybakina in three sets to take a giant step to the next round of the tournament. She cemented her place in the semifinals after beating Paolini 6-1, 6-1 in just an hour and seven minutes.
During her on-court interview, she was asked how she felt being the youngest Chinese player to advance to the semifinals of the WTA. She revealed she was proud to achieve such a feat, thanking the crowd for their support.
It’s almost 11 years ago. I’m proud I could make it. I didn’t know what would happen when I came here because it’s my first time. I just told myself to enjoy. Especially because I’m in a really difficult group. Thanks to all the fans who came to watch me tonight. Thanks for all your support.
Qinwen Zheng said
Also, Zheng became the youngest player in her WTA Finals debut to qualify for the semifinals since Petra Kvitova in 2011. She will face whosoever tops the Orange Group in the last four.
Tennis legend praises Qinwen Zheng for dominating victory over Jasmine Paolini
Qinwen Zheng currently has her best season career record, 41-12, after her win against Jasmine Paolini. The Chinese star completed the group stage with a 2-1 record and will finish second in the Purple Group. However, her performance on Wednesday (November 6) has earned her praise from tennis legend Tim Henman.
Zheng’s precise display saw Paolini win only two match points while showing great quality in her serves. She hit 12 aces compared to none from her opponent. Henman revealed that Zheng dominated the match from start to finish.
That was an absolute masterclass. From start to finish it was complete domination. The first serve was so aggressive. Hitting her spots, a lot of aces. I mean she’s hit the most aces on Tour and it’s a huge weapon. Zheng is crushing forehand and backhands on either wing. She’ll take huge confidence going forward. She’s played her way into form.
Tim Henman said via Sky Sports
Meanwhile, Zheng is not new to playing at her best in big tournaments. She defeated the Olympic gold medal favorite, Iga Swiatek, in the semifinals of the Summer Games and went on to win the medal.
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Victor Okechukwu
(690 Articles Published)