In an intense showdown at the Berlin Open 🎾, China's rising tennis star Zheng Qinwen faced off against the Czech Republic's Katerina Siniakova. Despite a fierce battle, Zheng was edged out with a score of 6-4, 6-4 in the second-round match on Thursday.
The duel was initially set for Wednesday, but the unpredictable Berlin weather had other plans 🌧️. A slippery court forced officials to suspend play with Siniakova leading 5-3 in the first set. The action resumed the next day, but the Czech qualifier held onto her momentum, clinching the first set 6-4.
Zheng wasn't backing down without a fight! The young talent unleashed a barrage of powerful shots in the second set, serving up more aces than her opponent 🎯. The tension skyrocketed as the players traded breaks, pushing the score to a nail-biting 4-4.
But in the critical ninth game, Siniakova seized another break, setting herself up to serve for the match at 5-4. The final game was a rollercoaster 🎢, with both players giving it their all. Ultimately, Zheng's final shot went out of bounds, handing Siniakova the victory. This marks the second time the Czech player has bested Zheng in their three career encounters.
For Siniakova, Thursday's triumph isn't just another win. It's her second victory over a Top-10 player in 2023, and it propels her into a WTA Tour quarterfinal for the first time this year 🚀.
While it's a tough loss for Zheng, her tenacity and skill continue to shine on the court ✨. Tennis fans around the world are eagerly watching as this young star's journey unfolds.
Reference(s):
Zheng Qinwen loses to Katerina Siniakova in 2nd round at Berlin Open
cgtn.com
