Zhuhai, China — Chinese tennis sensation Zheng Qinwen delivered a stellar performance to defeat Greece’s Maria Sakkari at the WTA Elite Trophy, capturing the biggest title of her career. The 21-year-old secured a straight-sets victory, 6-1, 6-2, showcasing her dominance on home soil.
Facing the World No. 9 and former tournament finalist, Zheng displayed remarkable composure and skill. This win marks her first triumph over Sakkari in their head-to-head encounters, leveling their record to 1-1.
"It’s an incredible feeling to win here in Zhuhai," Zheng said after the match. "The support from the fans was amazing, and it motivated me to play my best tennis."
With this victory, Zheng is projected to break into the top 20 of the WTA rankings for the first time, signaling her rapid rise in the sport. Her impressive form throughout the tournament has made her one of the players to watch in the upcoming season.
Sakkari praised her opponent’s performance, saying, "Zheng played exceptionally well today. She has a bright future ahead, and I congratulate her on this achievement."
The WTA Elite Trophy gathers some of the highest-ranked players who didn’t qualify for the WTA Finals, providing a platform for emerging talents like Zheng to shine on the global stage.
Zheng’s victory is a significant milestone for Chinese tennis, inspiring many young athletes in the region. As she continues to climb the ranks, the tennis world eagerly watches her next moves.
