Another great result of the season, which led to a milestone which had been missing for 11 years: Qinwen Zheng became the second Chinese player to reach the semifinals at the WTA Finals, after her countrywoman Li Na, who did it in 2013. The Chinese Olympic gold medalist achieved a doubles 6-1 defeat of Jasmine Paolini, qualifying for the semifinals with Aryna Sabalenka, in the Purple Group.
Speaking with WTA after the match, the Australian Open finalist analyzed: “11 years ago it was Li Na’s turn to reach the semifinals at the WTA Finals, I’m happy that now it’s my turn. I got through a really tough group, I’m very happy. Thanks also to my fans. It was one of the best matches of my season, I found the right feeling on all my shots. Playing like this was extraordinary. I finally feel like my serve is becoming more consistent. I remember that in 2022 it was quite strong. I don’t know why its performance suddenly dropped in 2023. In this tournament and in the last semester I feel like my serve is coming back for the first time. In the end I was able to express the tennis that I really want to play. When I step on the court I’m obviously nervous, but at the same time I’m confident because I know my level. I know what I’m capable of doing.”
Qinwen Zheng becomes the first…
