Zheng Conquers WTA Finals Semifinals
China’s Zheng Qinwen secured a commanding 6-3, 7-5 victory over Barbora Krejcikova in the WTA Finals semifinals, showcasing exceptional serving prowess with 7 aces in the first set alone.
The 22-year-old Chinese tennis sensation Zheng Qinwen continues her remarkable run at her WTA Finals debut, dispatching doubles specialist Barbora Krejcikova in straight sets to advance to the championship match.
The first set demonstrated Zheng’s devastating serve, as she fired seven aces and maintained a stellar 94.12% first-serve success rate. Her aggressive baseline play and improved net game proved too much for Krejcikova, resulting in a confident 6-3 victory.
The second set revealed Zheng’s mental fortitude. Despite facing crowd disruptions during her service games and a mid-set challenge from Krejcikova who fought back from 0-3 to lead 4-3, Zheng remained composed. Her ability to reset and refocus under pressure - a skill honed during her Olympic journey - helped her secure the decisive break and close out the match 7-5.
This victory marks another milestone in Zheng’s breakthrough season. Having already claimed titles at Palermo, the Paris Olympics, and Tokyo, she has proven herself against the sport’s elite. Her first-serve dominance and improved net play showcase her evolution into a complete player.
The match statistics tell a compelling story: Zheng’s aggressive return game neutralized Krejcikova’s serve, while her own service games, particularly in the first set, provided the foundation for victory. Even when her first-serve percentage dipped in the second set, her improved court coverage and tactical awareness allowed her to prevail in crucial rallies.
Zheng’s achievement is particularly noteworthy as she becomes the first Chinese player to reach the WTA Finals championship match since Li Na. Her journey from Hubei Province to the pinnacle of professional tennis exemplifies the growth of Chinese tennis on the global stage.
The young star’s composed demeanor throughout the match, especially during moments of crowd interference, demonstrates her growing maturity. With this victory, she has secured a spot in the world’s top 5 rankings, regardless of the final’s outcome.
As Zheng prepares for the championship match, her confidence and all-court game make her a formidable contender, whether she faces world number one Sabalenka or Gauff. Her remarkable rise continues to inspire a new generation of tennis players in China.