Zheng Qinwen’s meteoric rise in the tennis world continues, as the Chinese star finds herself just one victory away from a dream run at both the Paris Olympics and the WTA Finals in her debut year. On Friday, Zheng powered her way into the WTA Finals championship match in Riyadh with a hard-fought 6-3, 7-5 victory over reigning Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova. This achievement further cements Zheng’s position as one of the most promising talents in women’s tennis and puts her on the cusp of a remarkable season-ending title.
### Dominant Opening Sets the Tone
From the outset, the 22-year-old displayed the form that has defined her breakout year. Zheng stormed out of the gates, breaking Krejcikova’s serve in the opening game and establishing a commanding 3-0 lead. Her aggressive baseline play and powerful groundstrokes left the Czech star scrambling, as Zheng dictated rallies with a mix of heavy topspin and precise shot placement. This relentless pressure saw Zheng close out the first set comfortably, 6-3, as Krejcikova struggled to find her rhythm.
Continuing her momentum into the second set, Zheng secured back-to-back breaks to establish another early 3-0 lead. Her service game was particularly impressive, mixing pace and precision to keep Krejcikova off balance. By this point, it appeared that Zheng was on course for a routine victory. However, Krejcikova, known for her resilience and tactical acumen, was not ready to bow out quietly.
### Krejcikova Fights Back
Down by a set and a double break, Krejcikova dug deep to mount a spirited comeback. The reigning Wimbledon champion found her groove, attacking Zheng’s serve and exploiting brief lapses in her opponent’s focus. Krejcikova claimed her first break points of the match and converted with precision, reeling off consecutive breaks to surge ahead 4-3 in the second set. The tide had momentarily shifted, and the match was poised for a tense finish.
However, Zheng’s composure and determination shone through in the critical moments. Refusing to let the match slip away, she regrouped and showcased her mental toughness by breaking Krejcikova in the 11th game to regain a 6-5 lead. With the opportunity to close out the match on her own serve, Zheng delivered under pressure, sealing the victory with a mixture of powerful serves and precise groundstrokes.
### Zheng’s Serve Proves Key
Zheng’s serve has been a major weapon throughout her run in Riyadh. In her earlier group-stage victory over Italy’s Jasmine Paolini, Zheng fired 12 aces, and she continued her serving dominance against Krejcikova with nine more aces. Reflecting on her improvement, Zheng noted, “I finally feel that my serve has started to be a bit more consistent.” This newfound consistency has allowed her to play more aggressively and confidently, setting the stage for her impressive performances in the tournament.
### Eyeing a Rematch with Aryna Sabalenka
Zheng’s focus now shifts to the championship match, where she could face a familiar and formidable foe: Aryna Sabalenka. The world No. 1, who has already captured two Grand Slam titles this year, defeated Zheng in their opening match in Riyadh. Sabalenka’s powerful game and relentless aggression have been a stumbling block for Zheng, as evidenced by their 0-5 head-to-head record. Yet, instead of being deterred, Zheng sees this as motivation to elevate her own game.
“She won two Slams. This is a really big achievement for her,” Zheng acknowledged. “I remember last year when she won her first Grand Slam at the Australian Open, and then she kept going, kept working. Both Slams she won this year, I lost against her on the way. Which means if I want to win a Slam, I have to be able to beat her. And I’m quite excited for that day.”
Should Sabalenka emerge victorious in her semifinal clash against Coco Gauff, the stage will be set for an electrifying rematch. Zheng’s confidence, combined with her recent form, suggests that she is ready to challenge Sabalenka like never before.
### A Season to Remember
Regardless of the outcome in the final, Zheng’s 2024 season has been nothing short of remarkable. Capturing the gold medal at the Paris Olympics was a historic moment for Chinese tennis, and her deep run at the WTA Finals underscores her status as a rising star on the global stage. The 22-year-old’s blend of power, precision, and mental fortitude makes her a genuine threat to the established order in women’s tennis.
Zheng’s journey has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike, and her potential for future success seems limitless. As she prepares for the biggest match of her career, Zheng remains focused, determined, and eager to prove that she belongs among the sport’s elite. “This year has been a great learning experience,” she reflected. “I’ve faced the best, and I’m getting better every day.”
Whether she lifts the trophy in Riyadh or not, Zheng Qinwen’s ascent is a storyline that will continue to unfold in the seasons to come. For now, all eyes are on the final, where one more victory would cap off a fairy-tale debut year on the WTA’s grandest stages.