Zheng Qinwen Advances to WTA Finals Semi-Finals

Chinese tennis player Zheng Qinwen has advanced to the semi-finals of the WTA Finals in Riyadh, marking a significant achievement as the first Chinese player to do so since Li Na in 2013. Zheng secured her spot with a dominating 6-1, 6-1 victory over Italy's Jasmine Paolini, showcasing her powerful serve and groundstrokes. Earlier in the tournament, Zheng also defeated Elena Rybakina in a tight three-set match, which was her first win over the Kazakhstani player in three attempts, further enhancing her breakout season. Despite losing her opener to Aryna Sabalenka, Zheng's performance has been impressive, particularly given her recent Olympic gold medal win and titles in Palermo and Tokyo. Sabalenka, meanwhile, secured her place in the semi-finals and clinched the year-end world number one ranking. The WTA Finals, held in Saudi Arabia for the first time, have been criticized for low attendance and the country's human rights record, although they offer record prize money for the winners.