In a thrilling three-set match, China’s Zheng Qinwen emerged victorious against fellow countrywoman Zhu Lin to secure her place in the WTA Elite Trophy final. The 18th-ranked Zheng showcased her determination and resilience throughout the intense encounter, eventually prevailing with a scoreline of 7-5, 4-6, 6-1. This remarkable achievement makes her only the second Chinese player to reach the final of the prestigious tournament.
It comes as no surprise that Zheng managed to claim victory against Zhu, considering her remarkable winning streak. Zheng has now triumphed in eight consecutive matches, an impressive feat that includes her recent triumph at the Zhengzhou Open. Furthermore, she also secured the prestigious gold medal at the Asian Games, defeating Zhu just last month. This exceptional form undoubtedly played a crucial role in her success on the court.
Awaiting Zheng in the championship match is the formidable Beatriz Haddad Maia from Brazil. Haddad Maia, ranked eighth, earned her spot in the final with a dominant performance against sixth-seeded Daria Kasatkina, sealing a convincing 6-4, 6-1 victory. This will be Haddad Maia’s first final appearance of the year, adding an extra layer of excitement to the anticipated clash between her and Zheng.
Zheng demonstrated her unwavering determination in the grueling semifinal match against Zhu Lin. The first set alone lasted an exhausting 80 minutes, which saw Zheng fending off six break points and saving two set points before ultimately breaking Zhu’s serve in the crucial 12th game. Zhu, however, displayed her resilience by claiming the second set, leading to a nail-biting decider.
What distinguished Zheng from her opponent was her exceptional serving skills. With a commanding 5-1 lead in the final set, Zheng’s serve became the defining factor in securing her victory. Faced with two break points, Zheng showcased her composure and saved them both, ultimately clinching the win. This impressive display of mental fortitude underscores her prowess as a top player.
Zheng is set to follow in the footsteps of her compatriot Wang Qiang, who reached the final of the WTA Elite Trophy last year, eventually finishing as the runner-up to former world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty. As Zheng steps onto the court for the highly-anticipated final, the hopes of Chinese tennis fans will undoubtedly rest upon her shoulders, eager for her to make history and be crowned as the champion of the tournament.
Meanwhile, 19th-ranked Beatriz Haddad Maia continues to prove herself as a formidable opponent. With her third consecutive straight-sets victory in the tournament, Haddad Maia has maintained a perfect record. She clinched a stunning upset victory against the second-seeded Madison Keys, followed by a triumph over Caroline Garcia to secure her place in the final. Haddad Maia’s exceptional serve, winning 80% of her first-service points, has been instrumental in her success, allowing her to maintain control throughout her matches.
As Zheng Qinwen prepares for the final showdown against Beatriz Haddad Maia, the stage is set for an electrifying clash between two outstanding players. Zheng’s unwavering determination and exceptional form make her a formidable opponent, while Haddad Maia’s impeccable record in the tournament solidifies her as a worthy contender. With high stakes and a chance to etch their names in tennis history, both players will undoubtedly leave no stone unturned in their quest to be crowned the champion of the WTA Elite Trophy.
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