Australian Open: Zheng Qinwen becomes China’s first finalist since 2014, beating Dayana Yastremska
- ‘Queen Wen’ overcomes Ukrainian to set up final against defending champion Aryna Sabalenka
- She becomes first Chinese finalist at Melbourne Park since her idol Li Na a decade ago
Zheng Qinwen coasted past Ukrainian qualifier Dayana Yastremska on Thursday to become the first Chinese finalist in a decade at the Australian Open, setting up a decider against defending champion Aryna Sabalenka.
The 12th seed, heading into the world’s top 10 in next week’s updated rankings, delivered a controlled performance on Rod Laver Arena to win 6-4, 6-4 in one hour, 42 minutes.
She is the first Chinese player to reach the final at Melbourne Park since her idol Li Na, who won the tournament in 2014.
“I’m super-excited to have such a great performance today and arrive in the final,” said the 21-year-old, who had previously never been beyond the quarter-finals at a grand slam event.
“My opponent was playing unbelievable tennis and had a really good baseline stroke. It is tough to explain my feelings now.”
Yastremska broke first in the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena but served four double faults in the next game to immediately give up her advantage.