Swiatek and Zheng Advance to Last 16 at China Open After Tough Matches

BEIJING: Former world number one Iga Swiatek and home favorite Zheng Qinwen both secured their spots in the last 16 of the China Open on Monday after battling through challenging three-set matches.

Swiatek, who faced Croatia’s Donna Vekic, displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming a first-set loss to win 4-6, 7-6 (7/0), 6-2. The Polish player expressed her frustration during the match, stating, “I was just angry, wanted to change something, because clearly it wasn’t working.” She will next face American teenager Iva Jovic for a chance to reach the quarter-finals.

Zheng, meanwhile, endured her third consecutive three-set match, defeating Czech player Marie Bouzkova 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 7-5. The Chinese athlete voiced her frustrations throughout the match, particularly regarding her movement on the court. However, she managed to clinch the final two games, securing victory when Bouzkova hit a long shot. Zheng remarked, “I gave everything,” highlighting her determination in the tournament.

Both players’ victories underscore their tenacity and skill as they progress in the tournament, with Swiatek aiming to reclaim her top form and Zheng looking to capitalize on her home advantage. The upcoming matches promise to be thrilling as they vie for a place in the quarter-finals.