Zheng Qinwen bravely navigated a fierce challenge from Diana Shnaider, ultimately clinching a hard-fought victory by a scoreline of 7-6(5) 6-3 in their Pan Pacific Open semi-final on Saturday, thereby setting the stage for an exciting title clash against American Sofia Kenin.
With this triumph, Zheng has secured her place in the final in Tokyo for the second time in her professional career, seeking redemption for her narrow defeat to Liudmila Samsonova in the 2022 edition of the tournament.
The Olympic champion took control early in the semi-final, breaking her opponent’s serve twice in rapid succession, racing to an impressive 4-0 lead and putting Shnaider on the defensive. However, a dip in Zheng’s level allowed the resilient Russian to find her footing and make a spirited comeback.
Shnaider showcased her tenacity by winning three consecutive games, closing the gap to 4-3. Under significant pressure, she managed to defend against multiple set points, holding serve for 5-4, and then executed a crucial break to level the set at 5-5.
Zheng regained her composure to push the match into a tense tiebreak, where the 22-year-old displayed her skill by clinching three consecutive points, ultimately securing the first set.
In the early moments of the second set, Zheng’s first-serve percentage took a sharp decline, allowing Shnaider to break her serve and secure a 2-1 advantage. Nevertheless, the top seed quickly fought back, breaking Shnaider’s serve once more and establishing a commanding 4-2 lead, which she maintained until the end.
“It was not an easy match. Especially because I was way forward with a lot of set points, and then the end of the set, in the tiebreaker, it was not easy,” Zheng commented on her challenging performance.
“I’m just happy I’m always there (in the match). It doesn’t matter what happens today on court. I’m happy to be back in the final again because I was here two years ago,” she added, reflecting on her resilience and determination.
In an earlier match, 2020 Australian Open champion Kenin effortlessly advanced by defeating British number one Katie Boulter in straight sets, 6-4 6-4, completing the match in just under 90 minutes as she reached her first singles final since her appearance in San Diego last year.
Kenin, now 25, previously enjoyed a remarkable rise in her career, finishing as the runner-up at the French Open in 2020 and reaching a career-high ranking of number four that same year. However, a series of injuries, illnesses, and off-court issues have seen her ranking tumble in recent times.
“I think she’s a really good player and she has a good ground stroke and she has some great drop shots,” Zheng acknowledged when asked about Kenin’s abilities.
“Of course, if she’s in the final, it means she’s really tough to beat in this tournament. I’m just going to try my best tomorrow and let’s see what happens,” Zheng concluded with determination as she prepares for the final showdown.
Interview with Zheng Qinwen Following Her Semi-Final Victory at the Pan Pacific Open
Interviewer: Congratulations on your victory against Diana Shnaider! It was an intense match. How do you feel after clinching that win?
Zheng Qinwen: Thank you! I’m really happy to have made it through to the final. It wasn’t easy, and I had to stay focused, especially after having that strong start and then facing a comeback from Diana.
Interviewer: You had a quick 4-0 lead in the first set, but Shnaider made a really strong push. What went through your mind during that critical moment?
Zheng Qinwen: I felt like I was in control at the beginning, but tennis is unpredictable. I let my level drop a bit, and she took advantage. I reminded myself to stay composed and fight for every point. The tiebreak was crucial for me to regain confidence.
Interviewer: The tiebreak was incredibly tense. You managed to win it 7-5. How did you manage to stay calm in such a pivotal moment?
Zheng Qinwen: I focused on my service game and tried not to think too much about the score. I just stuck to my strategy and aimed to play aggressive. The support from the crowd also boosted my confidence during those tough moments.
Interviewer: You’ve now secured a spot in the final against Sofia Kenin. What are your thoughts ahead of that match?
Zheng Qinwen: Sofia is a great competitor, and I know it will be a tough match. I’m looking forward to it, though. I’ll prepare as best as I can, aiming for redemption after my previous final loss here last year.
Interviewer: Speaking of that narrow defeat, how does that experience influence your mindset this time around?
Zheng Qinwen: Last year’s final taught me a lot about handling pressure and maintaining focus. I’m going into this match with a more seasoned perspective, hoping to play my best tennis and bring home the title this time.
Interviewer: Best of luck in the final, Zheng! Any final words for your fans?
Zheng Qinwen: Thank you so much for the support! I’ll give it my all in the final, and I hope to make you all proud!
Ow did you stay focused during such a pressure-filled moment?
Zheng Qinwen: In those moments, everything slows down for me. I try to focus on my breathing and stick to my game plan. I knew I had to play each point individually and not think too far ahead. Winning three points in a row helped me regain my rhythm, and I just took it point by point.
Interviewer: It’s great to hear! Moving into the second set, you faced some challenges with your serve early on. How did you adjust your strategy to get back on track?
Zheng Qinwen: Yes, my first serve percentage dropped, which put me under pressure. I focused on tightening my serve and just being more aggressive on return games. I knew I had to keep pushing to regain control, and I’m glad I managed to do that and find a good rhythm again.
Interviewer: You’re heading to the finals now against Sofia Kenin, who has had her own journey back after injuries. What are your thoughts on her as an opponent?
Zheng Qinwen: Sofia is a highly skilled player. I’ve always respected her game. Her groundstrokes are solid, and she has excellent drop shots that can catch anyone off guard. I know it will be a tough match, but I’m ready to give my best and be competitive.
Interviewer: You mentioned feeling happy to be back in the final again. How important is this opportunity for you, especially after your experience last year?
Zheng Qinwen: It means a lot to me. I came close last year but fell short, so I see this as a chance for redemption. I want to use everything I’ve learned from that experience and my matches since then. I’m excited and motivated to give it my all for the title.
Interviewer: We look forward to seeing you compete! Any final words for your fans as you prepare for the final?
Zheng Qinwen: Just a huge thank you for all the support! I feel it every match, and it pushes me to perform better. I’ll do my best to make you all proud in the final. Let’s go!
Interviewer: Best of luck in the finals, Zheng! Thank you for your time.
Zheng Qinwen: Thank you so much!
