In a stunning display of skill and power, Zheng Qinwen decisively defeated Jasmine Paolini in just 67 minutes during her debut at the WTA Finals in Riyadh. The match ended with a score of 6-1, 6-1, propelling Zheng into the semi-finals and marking a significant milestone as she became the first Chinese woman to reach this stage since Li Na in 2013.
The 22-year-old Zheng, who secured an Olympic gold medal earlier this year, showcased her remarkable talent against Paolini. With this victory, she improved her group-stage record to 2-1, with her only loss occurring against Aryna Sabalenka on the tournament’s opening day.
Reflecting on her experience, Zheng expressed uncertainty about what to expect upon her arrival but emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment, especially in a challenging group.
Having already clinched the year-end world number one ranking, Sabalenka is set to top the group if she prevails over Elena Rybakina later today. The WTA Finals feature the top eight singles and doubles players and offer unprecedented prize money, with the unbeaten singles champion poised to earn nearly £4 million.
This year’s tournament is notable for being held in Saudi Arabia for the first time. However, it has faced criticism due to the country’s human rights record. Despite concerns over crowd turnout—evident during Iga Swiatek’s opening match—Zheng has attracted attention and support as a formidable competitor.
During her win against Paolini, Zheng delivered an impressive performance characterized by 24 winners and 12 aces, demonstrating her powerful forehand and solid serve. She previously triumphed over world number five Rybakina earlier in the week, marking a career first for Zheng by defeating two top-10 players in a single tournament.
As she builds on her success following victories in Palermo and Tokyo, along with reaching the quarter-finals at the US Open, Zheng’s momentum continues to grow. Her journey not only highlights her individual accomplishments but also reflects a broader narrative of Chinese athletes making significant strides on the global stage.
With each match, Zheng Qinwen not only cements her status as a rising star but also inspires many who follow her journey through tennis and beyond.
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