Beijing—China’s top tennis star and reigning Olympic champion, Zheng Qinwen, delivered a commanding performance at the China Open on Saturday, dispatching Russia’s Kamilla Rakhimova with a resounding 6-1, 6-1 victory in the second round.
The 21-year-old sensation from Hubei Province, who made history by securing China’s first-ever singles gold medal at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, returned to Beijing with unwavering determination. Zheng’s powerful forehand dominated the match from the outset, overwhelming Rakhimova and delighting the capacity crowd at the Diamond Court.
After receiving a bye in the first round of the prestigious WTA 1000 event, Zheng wasted no time asserting her dominance. Her formidable groundstrokes and relentless pace left Rakhimova struggling to keep up, as Zheng clinched the opening set 6-1 with ease.
"I strengthened my physical fitness recently and increased the amount of exercises I do," Zheng shared after the match. "If you do well in physical training, you can reach a high ball speed while only using 70 percent of your power, instead of 100 percent. So I think the training is of great help to me."
Zheng’s impressive form has been evident throughout the season. She reached her first Grand Slam final at the Australian Open in January and advanced to the quarterfinals of the US Open earlier in September. Her relentless drive and exceptional skill continue to elevate her status on the global stage.
In the second set, Zheng maintained her momentum, thrilling the crowd with her agility and precision. She sealed the match with another emphatic 6-1 set, confidently securing her place in the third round, where she will face Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska.
Zheng’s triumphant return to Beijing not only showcases her personal growth but also signifies a bright future for Chinese tennis. As she continues to inspire fans across the nation and beyond, all eyes will be on her as the tournament progresses.
Reference(s):
China Open: Olympic champ Zheng eases past Rakhimova in Beijing return
cgtn.com
