Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen has stormed into the WTA Finals final in Riyadh, defeating Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova in a thrilling 6-3, 7-5 encounter. The victory keeps Zheng’s hopes alive of becoming the second woman in history to win both the Olympic gold medal and the year-end crown in the same year.
Zheng, making her debut at the WTA Finals, displayed remarkable composure to overcome a spirited comeback attempt from Krejcikova. After dominating the early stages of the match, Zheng saw her lead evaporate as Krejcikova rallied to win four consecutive games. However, the Chinese star refused to be denied, holding her nerve to win the final three games of the first set.
In the second set, Zheng continued to showcase her impressive all-court game, mixing powerful groundstrokes with deft touch. Krejcikova fought valiantly, but Zheng’s determination proved too strong. The 22-year-old broke Krejcikova’s serve at a crucial moment, securing the victory and a place in the final.
Zheng’s victory marks a significant milestone in her career. She is the youngest woman to reach the WTA Finals final in her first appearance since Petra Kvitova in 2011. She is also the 15th first-time WTA Finals competitor to reach the final, and the first since Anett Kontaveit in 2021.
In the final, Zheng will face either Aryna Sabalenka or Coco Gauff. She will need to overcome a winless record against both players to become the first woman since Serena Williams in 2012 to win the Olympic gold medal and WTA Finals in the same year.
Zheng’s success is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She has emerged as one of the most promising young players in the world, and her performance at the WTA Finals has further solidified her status as a rising star.
