Experiencing a losing streak of 23 matches in singles competition is undoubtedly a tough pill to swallow—a feeling that only Zhang Shuai truly understands. Nevertheless, never giving up has always been the most prominent trait of the Chinese veteran. Despite facing repeated setbacks in singles matches, the 35-year-old’s fighting spirit remains unwavering, and she has found success in the doubles arena with a much-needed winning streak.
Teaming up with Kristina Mladenovic from France, Zhang has advanced to the third round of the women’s doubles at the US Open by defeating Poland’s Magda Linette and American Peyton Stearns. The seasoned duo showcased their prowess by breaking three times in the first set to claim it 6-2. After dropping the second set 6-4, Zhang and Mladenovic took a more aggressive approach in the decisive set, quickly building a 5-1 lead and eventually securing it 6-3.
Although she faced an early exit in the singles competition at the US Open, breaking the record for the longest losing streak in women’s singles tennis, Zhang insisted that this setback does not shake her belief in climbing back from the bottom. Her resilient performance in the doubles matches serves as a testament to this determination.
Reference(s):
Zhang's doubles triumph shines amid record losing streak in singles
cgtn.com
