Zheng Qinwen becomes the first Chinese woman to win the China Open after defeating Mirra Andreeva in straight sets.
In a historic moment for Chinese tennis, Zheng Qinwen secured her maiden WTA 1000 title by defeating Mirra Andreeva in straight sets at the China Open in Beijing on Sunday.
The 24-year-old wildcard player overcame a challenging start, saving three set points in the opening set to eventually triumph 7-5, 6-4 in front of a passionate home crowd, according to information published by BBC.
The victory marks her sixth career title and ends a two-year title drought for the player, who previously underwent elbow surgery last year and struggled with form and fitness over the past 12 months.
Overcoming early deficits against Andreeva
The 19-year-old Russian competitor Mirra Andreeva started strong in the match, taking a 2-0 lead in both sets and leading 5-4 in the first set before Zheng Qinwen mounted a powerful comeback.
Zheng Qinwen successfully defended three set points and claimed the remaining 11 points to secure the opening set 7-5, shifting the momentum in her favor during the high-stakes final showdown.
Celebration and karaoke in Beijing
Following the emotional victory point, Zheng Qinwen fell to the floor in celebration before treating the enthusiastic local spectators in Beijing to a surprise karaoke performance after her victory speech.
She described the incredible feeling of winning at home after navigating a very tough year marked by physical recovery, culminating in her third top-10 victory of the current season.
Rankings boost and historic milestone
Despite the straight-sets defeat at the China Open, Mirra Andreeva is expected to rise to number three in the world rankings when updates are released on Monday.
Meanwhile, Zheng Qinwen will leap 31 spots up to number 23 globally, capping off a remarkable tournament run that included her 14th career win against a top-10 opponent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the China Open women's singles title?
Zheng Qinwen became the first Chinese woman to win the China Open by defeating Mirra Andreeva in straight sets in Beijing.
What was the score of the China Open final?
Zheng Qinwen defeated Mirra Andreeva with a score of 7-5, 6-4 to claim her first WTA 1000 title.
How will the win affect Zheng Qinwen's world ranking?
Following her historic victory at the China Open, Zheng Qinwen is set to jump 31 spots up to number 23 in the world rankings.
