ZHENG Qinwen continued her brilliant performance this year when she advanced to the semifinals of the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Thursday (7/110 WIB, thanks to victory over Wimbledon finalist Jasmine Paolini.
Zheng, who is the gold medal winner at the 2024 Paris Olympics, claimed his 30th win in his last 35 matches.
The Chinese tennis player beat fourth seed Paolini with a straight sets win 6-1, 6-1 in 67 minutes.
On the final day of round robin play in the Purple Group, Zheng and Paolini fought for the second qualifying spot behind Aryna Sabalenka. Sabalenka had already secured a ticket to the semifinals of the WTA Finals on Monday (4/11).
With a record of one loss to Sabalenka and one win over Elena Rybakina in her previous two matches this week, Zheng sealed her ticket to the last four with a dominant performance over Paolini.
The result made Zheng the first Chinese tennis player since Li Na in 2013 to qualify from the group stage of the WTA Finals.
“That (Li Na’s achievement) happened 11 years ago, I’m really proud to be able to do it. I didn’t know what to expect when
appearing at the WTA Finals for the first time. “I’m in a very difficult group,” Zheng said as quoted on the official WTA website.
Aggressive returns earned Zheng her first break of the match in the third game, and the seventh seed doubled her advantage to lead 5-1.
Paolini saved a set point while serving in the seventh game, but Zheng continued to press and won the first set in
second chance.
Zheng’s performance became even more impressive in the second set, and after saving a break point, he served for
extended the lead to 5-1. After that, with his 12th ace of the night, he won the match.
This was Zheng’s fourth win from four meetings with Paolini. Paolini will still appear in the doubles and will fight to secure a semifinal position with his partner, Sara Errani. (Ant/Z-1)
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**Interview with Zheng Qinwen: Celebrating Success at the WTA Finals**
*Interviewer:* Welcome, Zheng! Congratulations on your amazing performance at the WTA Finals and for advancing to the semifinals with a dominant win over Jasmine Paolini. How does it feel to reach this stage?
*Zheng Qinwen:* Thank you so much! It feels incredible to have made it this far, especially after a long season. Beating a player like Jasmine in straight sets is a huge confidence boost, and I’m extremely grateful for the support I’ve received.
*Interviewer:* You mentioned confidence; you’re coming off a fantastic run, with 30 wins in your last 35 matches. What do you think has contributed to your success this year?
*Zheng Qinwen:* I believe it’s a combination of hard work, great coaching, and believing in myself. I’ve focused on my training and mental strength, and it seems to be paying off. Winning the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics also gave me an extra push.
*Interviewer:* Your match against Paolini was quite one-sided. What was your game plan going into that match, and how did you execute it?
*Zheng Qinwen:* My plan was to stay aggressive and dictate the pace from the start. I focused on my serves and putting pressure on her early. I think the key was maintaining my intensity throughout the match, and I’m glad it worked out in my favor.
*Interviewer:* Looking ahead, what are your thoughts on the upcoming matches in the semifinals? Are you feeling ready to challenge for the title?
*Zheng Qinwen:* Absolutely! I’m feeling good and ready for the challenge. Every match is tough at this level, but I’m excited to compete. My goal is to keep playing my best tennis and hopefully come away with the title.
*Interviewer:* what message do you have for your fans who have supported you through your journey?
*Zheng Qinwen:* I just want to say thank you! Your support means everything to me. I hope to continue making you proud on the court and to bring even more success in the future!
*Interviewer:* Thank you, Zheng, and best of luck in the semifinals!
*Zheng Qinwen:* Thank you!
