China’s Zhang Shuai and her French partner Kristina Mladenovic showcased a dominant performance at the Australian Open on Saturday, defeating Peyton Stearns of the USA and Luisa Stefani of Brazil in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, to secure their place in the women’s doubles round of 16 in Melbourne.
The Chinese and French duo excelled in crucial moments throughout the match, converting all four of their break point opportunities and capitalizing on their first set and match points. In a display of defensive prowess, they successfully fended off all seven break points faced, denying Stearns and Stefani any chance to turn the tide.
The match began with an intense first game that set the tone for the encounter. Serving first, Zhang faced a challenging 18-minute game that featured 10 deuces as Stearns and Stefani applied early pressure. However, Zhang and Mladenovic remained composed, ultimately clinching the game with consecutive winners to gain an early advantage.
After the marathon opening, the duo found their rhythm, wrapping up the rest of the first set in just 34 minutes. Mladenovic sealed the set with a backhand winner down the line off Stefani’s second serve, converting their first set point.
The momentum carried into the second set as Zhang and Mladenovic broke Stefani’s serve early to lead 3-1. Despite a competitive effort from their opponents, the pair maintained their dominance. Leading 4-2, they endured another long game on Mladenovic’s serve, navigating through five deuces before Zhang’s decisive volley winner concluded the nine-minute battle.
The match concluded in emphatic fashion. Mladenovic set up match point with a sharp volley, and Zhang sealed victory with a forehand winner threaded between Stearns and Stefani. The duo tallied an impressive 20 winners throughout the contest, significantly outpacing their opponents’ eight.
Advancing to the round of 16, Zhang and Mladenovic continue their pursuit of the Australian Open title, demonstrating strong teamwork and resilience. Their next match promises to be another exciting chapter in their Grand Slam campaign.
Reference(s):
Zhang & Mladenovic reach last 16 in women's doubles at Australian Open
cgtn.com
