Top-seeded Zheng Qinwen of China clinched her fifth career title by defeating Sofia Kenin of the U.S. in a thrilling final at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo, Japan, on Sunday. Zheng secured a straight-sets victory with a score of 7-6(5), 6-3.
The journey to the title was anything but easy for Zheng. In the semifinals on Saturday, she faced a tough challenge from No. 6 seed Diana Shnaider of Russia, overcoming her with a close 7-6(5), 6-3 win. Meanwhile, Kenin, who entered the tournament as a wildcard, made an impressive run by upsetting three seeded players: No. 10 Wang Xinyu of China, No. 3 Daria Kasatkina of Russia, and No. 9 Katie Boulter of Britain. Kenin, a former world No. 4 and the 2020 Australian Open champion, showcased a resurgence in form throughout the tournament.
The final began under unpredictable weather conditions, with the first set being suspended twice due to rain before the roof of the Ariake Coliseum was closed. Both players held their nerve and serves through the first six games, leading to a tense tiebreak. Despite Zheng earning multiple break points earlier, she was unable to capitalize until the tiebreak, where she edged ahead after a 5-5 tie to claim the set.
Zheng’s momentum carried into the second set. She broke Kenin’s serve in the second game to take a 2-0 lead and extended it to 3-0 with a commanding service game featuring an ace. Though Kenin managed to hold her serve in the fourth game, Zheng responded with a flawless love game, delivering two more aces to maintain her lead at 4-1.
Kenin had an opportunity to shift the tide in the seventh game with her first break point of the match, but Zheng displayed resilience, saving the point and advancing to a 5-2 advantage. Serving for the championship at 5-3, Zheng’s sharp serves and unwavering focus led her to victory as Kenin sent the ball out of bounds on the final point.
“It’s an incredible feeling to win here in Tokyo,” Zheng said after the match. “Sofia is a great player, and it was a tough match. I’m happy with how I handled the pressure.”
Zheng’s victory at the Pan Pacific Open marks a significant achievement in her career, highlighting her growth and prominence in women’s tennis. The win adds momentum as she continues to make her mark on the international stage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
