Mertens Topples Swiatek in Straight Sets
Elise Mertens delivered a stunning performance in Beijing, upsetting world No. 1 Iga Swiatek 7-6(0), 6-3 in the China Open quarterfinals. The Belgian, ranked No. 19, secured her first WTA 1000 semifinal since 2021. Mertens' strategic play and ability to capitalize on key moments left fans and analysts stunned. The victory marks her third consecutive win over a Grand Slam champion, following earlier defeats of Jelena Ostapenko and Coco Gauff.[S1][S2]
Mertens attributed her success to consistency, noting Swiatek's ability to come back. She focused on serving games and applying pressure without becoming too defensive. The first set was tight, but Mertens dominated the tiebreak and maintained momentum. She expressed relief and happiness at serving out the match, calling it a great victory. The 30-year-old becomes the first Belgian woman to reach the China Open semifinals.[S2]
Zheng Qinwen Advances to Semifinals
Chinese wild card Zheng Qinwen defeated sixth-seeded Elina Svitolina 6-3, 7-6(6) to reach the China Open semifinals. Zheng, the Olympic gold medalist, becomes the fifth Chinese woman to achieve this milestone, joining Qiang Wang, Li Na, Zheng Jie, and Peng Shuai. She recorded 36 winners, 15 more than Svitolina, and celebrated her first match since her 24th birthday. Zheng will now play for a spot in the final, aiming to become the first Chinese woman to advance to the Beijing final.[S1][S2]
Zheng described the win as great, acknowledging Svitolina's strong play. She was pleased with her winners and bravery in important moments. Zheng has been revitalized since being ranked No. 121 in August, when she qualified for the US Open and reached the quarterfinals. She expressed a desire to be more aggressive, seizing opportunities and making wiser choices. In their only prior meeting, Zheng beat Mertens 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 on Har-Tru at the 2025 Charleston.[S2]
Andreeva Outlasts Alexandrova in Thriller
Rising star Mirra Andreeva continued her impressive run in Beijing, outlasting Ekaterina Alexandrova in a thrilling match that went to two tiebreak sets. Andreeva sealed her spot in the semifinals, adding to the tournament's showcase of rising talent and established players. The China Open has proven to be an exhilarating event, with fans eagerly anticipating the semifinal encounters.[S1]
