Best Odds Center
best odds centre button
Click here!
Sport TV
watch live tv button
Click here!
to watch
Live FootBall
NPFL
Click here!
Live Scores
play watch Live Score button
Click here!

Aryna Sabalenka Makes History with Third Wuhan Open Title

Posted : 13 October 2024

Aryna Sabalenka made history on Sunday by becoming the first player to win the Wuhan Open three times, defeating local favorite Zheng Qinwen 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 in a thrilling final. This victory marks Sabalenka’s third title at the event, having previously triumphed in 2018 and 2019, and she extended her remarkable record in Wuhan to an unbeaten 17-0. The match was a rematch of the 2024 Australian Open final, showcasing Sabalenka's resilience as she secured a record fifth title in the Open Era on Chinese soil.

 

With this win, Sabalenka adds to an impressive 2024 season, which already includes two Grand Slam titles and a WTA 1000 victory in Cincinnati. The 26-year-old has now claimed four trophies from seven finals this year, solidifying her position as a strong contender for the year-end world No. 1 ranking, currently held by Iga Swiatek. The race for the top spot is expected to intensify as the WTA Finals in Riyadh approach.

 

Zheng entered the match with a unique challenge, having never won a set against Sabalenka in their previous three encounters, all of which took place at Grand Slam events over the last 13 months. However, in front of a passionate home crowd of 13,000 at the Optic Valley International Tennis Centre, Zheng showcased her determination. Sabalenka took an early lead in the first set, breaking Zheng’s serve to go up 4-2 before closing out the set with her second ace, having lost just five points on serve.

 

The second set saw a remarkable shift, as Zheng responded fiercely after initially falling behind. She secured her first-ever break of serve against Sabalenka, leveling the set before pulling ahead 5-3. Ultimately, she capitalized on a Sabalenka error to claim the second set, forcing a decisive third. In the final set, Sabalenka quickly established a 3-0 lead, but Zheng fought hard to come back.

 

 Despite her efforts, Sabalenka held on to clinch the victory after a grueling 2 hours and 40 minutes. Zheng's performance in Wuhan still holds significance as she became the first Chinese finalist in the tournament's history, moving up in the Race to the WTA Finals and enhancing her chances of qualifying for the prestigious event, a feat last accomplished by Li Na in 2013.

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics

close button
Please fill captcha :