China’s Zhang Shuai delivered a thrilling performance at the China Open on Wednesday, securing a hard-fought victory over McCartney Kessler to advance to the second round and end her 24-game losing streak.
The 35-year-old faced an early setback when a long hit granted Kessler a 1-0 lead in the opening set. Undeterred, Zhang fought back, leveling the score at 5-5 as her American opponent found the net.
The tension peaked as the set progressed to a tiebreak. Zhang’s experience shone through as she clinched the set with a powerful forehand winner, igniting cheers from the home crowd.
The second set mirrored the intensity of the first. Kessler’s cross-court forehand winner brought the score to 5-5, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
Once again, a tiebreak was required to separate the two athletes. Zhang dominated the decider, winning 7-1, and sealing her place in the next round. She is set to face American Emma Navarro in what promises to be another exciting matchup.
Reference(s):
Zhang Shuai, Wang Xinyu shine in the opening round of China Open
cgtn.com
