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.”
