September 6, (THEWILL) – Aryna Sabalenka remained on track for her second Grand Slam title this year, after comfortably defeating China’s Zheng Qinwen in straight sets to reach the US Open semi-finals on Wednesday.
The Australian Open winner — who will become world number one next week — booked her place in the last four with a 6-1 6-4 win in 1 hour and 13 minutes. Sabalenka will face either Marketa Vondrousova of the Czech Republic or Madison Keys of the United States in the semifinals.
“I definitely played great tennis today,” remarked Sabalenka, before praising her opponent’s “incredible tennis” at this year’s US Open. Although assured of replacing Iga Swiatek at number one after the Polish player’s early exit, Sabalenka said she is not focusing on the top ranking yet. “I have things to achieve in New York first,” she stated, and will reflect on becoming number one after the tournament.
Rising Chinese star Zheng had hoped to cause another upset after reaching her first Grand Slam quarter-final. However, she never threatened the powerful Sabalenka, who raced to a 3-0 lead, dropping just two points.
Zheng finally held serve to make it 5-1, but Sabalenka comfortably took the first set in 27 minutes. Her dominance was typified by winning 23 of 26 points on first serve. Zheng fared slightly better in the second set, but after Sabalenka broke for a 4-3 lead, the result was not in doubt. She sealed victory in the 10th game.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
