In a gripping two-hour-and-11-minute clash at the WTA 500 event in London, the Chinese mainland's Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen overcame pressure to beat McCartney Kessler of the United States 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 and book her spot in the Queen's Club quarterfinals.
The 22-year-old world No. 5 showed why she is a top seed, breaking early in the opening set before facing a fierce comeback from world No. 42 Kessler. After losing focus in the second set, Zheng regrouped to seize control in the decider.
"I believe I should play even more aggressive on the grass court, but I need to be patient at the same time. I need to find the balance," Zheng said. Her ability to stay composed under pressure proved decisive as she turned the match around in the final games.
Next up is British wild card Emma Raducanu, who advanced with a 6-4, 6-1 win over Slovakia's Rebecca Sramkova. "As a British player, she definitely has more experience on the grass court. But I will pull out all the stops tomorrow. I will try my best to focus on every point," Zheng added.
Elsewhere, former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina secured her quarterfinal spot by defeating Britain’s Heather Watson 6-4, 6-2. The fourth seed will meet German veteran Tatjana Maria for a place in the semis.
Reference(s):
Zheng Qinwen battles past Kessler into quarterfinals at Queen's Club
cgtn.com
