Zhang Shuai of China continued her impressive run at the China Open in Beijing on Friday, stunning No. 6 seed Emma Navarro of the United States 6-4, 6-2 in the women’s singles second round.
After breaking a 24-match singles losing streak with a victory over McCartney Kessler of the U.S. in the first round, the 35-year-old Zhang displayed remarkable aggression against this year’s U.S. Open semifinalist Navarro. The Chinese veteran led in nearly all statistics, including first serve percentage, first serve points won, and break points converted.
Ranked No. 595 on the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) table, Zhang achieved a historic feat by defeating a world top-10 player from the lowest ranking in China Open history. It also marked her ninth career victory over a top-10 opponent.
“I want to thank every supporter who came here today for the courage you gave me,” Zhang said after the match. “I was able to stand on this court, where I have created so many miracles, because of you. Today I beat another strong opponent. Thank you for sharing this amazing moment with me.”
“I know that many didn’t think I could perform like this again because I have aged and lost my strength,” she added. “I just wanted to show everyone that my efforts every day are not wasted. I believe in chasing your dream. You have to work on it and go after it. It has nothing to do with your age.”
Zhang’s next opponent will be Greet Minnen of Belgium.
In other matches, China’s Wang Xinyu lost to No. 32 seed Veronika Kudermetova of Russia 6-3, 4-6, 5-7. Meanwhile, fourth-seeded Coco Gauff of the U.S. defeated Clara Burel of France 7-5, 6-3 in her first match since the U.S. Open.
