Zheng Qinwen of China showcased her prowess at the Miami Open on Thursday, defeating American Lauren Davis 6-1, 7-5 to secure a spot in the women’s singles third round.
The World No. 9 wasted no time asserting her dominance, breaking Davis in the second game and racing to a 3-0 lead in the first set. With a powerful serve that delivered six aces, Zheng clinched the opener in just 25 minutes.
In the second set, Zheng continued her momentum, breaking Davis in the first game to lead 3-1. However, Davis fought back, improving her backhand and winning three consecutive games to edge ahead 4-3. The crowd favorite pushed Zheng, but the Chinese ace remained composed.
Trailing 5-4, Zheng tapped into her formidable serve once more, firing six additional aces and claiming three straight games to seal the victory.
“It was a tough match, especially in the second set when she raised her level,” Zheng said after the match. “I’m happy with how I managed to stay focused and close it out.”
Zheng will face another American, Taylor Townsend, in the next round as she continues her quest for the title.
In women’s doubles action, the Chinese duo of Xu Yifan and Yang Zhaoxuan triumphed over Veronika Kudermetova of Russia and Chan Hao-ching of Chinese Taipei with a 7-5, 6-4 victory. Xu and Yang are set to meet Russia’s Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider in the round of 16.
On the men’s side, China’s Buyunchaokete delivered an impressive performance, knocking out Great Britain’s Cameron Norrie 6-4, 6-2 in the first round. However, compatriot Wu Yibing faced a tough loss to Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi, falling 7-6(3), 4-6, 6-3.
