Chinese tennis veterans showcased their resilience as Zhang Shuai and Wang Xiyu battled through qualifying rounds to secure coveted spots in the US Open women's singles main draw. The victories highlight China's growing influence in global tennis ahead of the year's final Grand Slam tournament.
Zhang Shuai, 36, demonstrated her enduring skill with a decisive 6-1, 6-3 win over compatriot Wei Sijia on Friday. This marks her 12th US Open main draw appearance and 49th career Grand Slam main draw qualification. The former doubles champion (2021) and 2022 fourth-round singles contender will face Switzerland's Belinda Bencic in a challenging first-round matchup.
Wang Xiyu, 24, overcame Russia's Alina Charaeva in a hard-fought 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 victory. The rising star's strategic play in the decisive third set secured her main draw position, where she'll meet Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko. Wang's progression signals China's emerging talent pipeline in international tennis.
