In a highly anticipated clash, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka began her campaign at the inaugural WTA Finals in Riyadh with a resounding 6-3, 6-4 victory over rising Chinese star Zheng Qinwen. The Belarusian powerhouse demonstrated her superiority at crucial moments, setting the tone for her quest to secure the prestigious year-end top ranking.
Sabalenka Overcomes Familiar Foe
Saturday’s encounter marked the fourth meeting between Sabalenka and Zheng in 2024, with the Belarusian maintaining her unblemished record against the talented 23-year-old. Despite Zheng’s aggressive style and vocal support from the crowd at the King Saud University Indoor Arena, Sabalenka’s experience and sheer power proved decisive.
She’s such a great player. We always have great battles. She plays aggressive tennis. She forced me to step in and go for it.
Aryna Sabalenka on Zheng Qinwen
Crucial Breaks Seal the Deal
In a tight opening set, Sabalenka edged ahead with a critical break in the sixth game. She consolidated her lead by holding serve to love, taking the early advantage. The second set saw Zheng enjoy four leads, but Sabalenka’s resilience shone through as she drew level each time. A searing forehand winner earned the Belarusian a decisive break for 5-4, allowing her to serve out the match despite a momentary wobble with a double fault on her first match point.
Eyes on the Prize
With her opening victory, Sabalenka took a significant step towards her ultimate goal of finishing the year as the world No. 1. The reigning Australian Open and U.S. Open champion can secure the top spot by winning three round-robin matches or reaching the final in Riyadh. For Sabalenka, clinching the year-end No. 1 ranking would be a dream come true.
It would mean everything to me. It’s one of my dreams. I’ve really worked hard in the last few years.
Aryna Sabalenka on potentially finishing 2024 as world No. 1
Historic WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia
The 2024 WTA Finals mark a significant milestone for women’s tennis, as the prestigious season-ending tournament is being held in Saudi Arabia for the first time. The event, which features the world’s top eight singles players and doubles teams competing for a record $15 million prize purse, is set to conclude with the championship matches on November 9.
In other Saturday action, Roland Garros and Wimbledon runner-up Jasmine Paolini overcame 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina 7-6(5), 6-4 in the Purple Group. Sunday’s matches will see world No. 2 Iga Swiatek take on Barbora Krejcikova in the Orange Group, followed by an all-American clash between Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula.
As the WTA Finals unfold in Riyadh, tennis fans worldwide will be eagerly following Sabalenka’s pursuit of the year-end No. 1 ranking and the intense competition among the sport’s elite. The historic tournament in Saudi Arabia promises to deliver thrilling matches and unforgettable moments, solidifying its place in the annals of women’s tennis history.
