Posted by Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Sunday October 13, 2024
Zheng Qinwen I couldn’t find a way through Aryna Sabalenka in Sunday’s Wuhan final, but the emerging Chinese eventually outclassed his opponent, and he feels good about the progress he has made after losing to the Belarusians in straight sets in their first three meetings.
“I thought the match today was better than last time,” he said, referring to his loss to Sabalenka in the quarterfinals of this year’s US Open (won by Sabalenka, 6-1, 6-2). “I see there are areas that I need to improve.”
In the end Zheng, his biggest critic, gave himself “five or six out of ten” for Sunday’s game.
Despite saying he has been feeling under the weather for the past two weeks, Zheng is still showing great fight as he pushes Sabalenka for a decision on Sunday. He believes he has a shot against the three-time major league champion.
“I think watching the game, it’s very clear today,” said the World No.7. “At critical points in this game, I have to increase my speed. I was still old fashioned. The swing of my racquet when I’m aggressive makes unforced errors. He forced me to see some weaknesses in my tactics. I look forward to the training. I am looking forward to the next game we will face.”
Sabalenka took notes of the steps Zheng took with him.
“He’s definitely improved,” he told reporters, referring to Zheng’s form in 2023. “There’s more consistency in his game. Maybe he’s playing a little bit slower. I think he’s improved his backhand a little bit. There’s definitely an improvement. He’s moving well, he’s serving well. I can see the improvement.
“I am very happy that because of this development I am able to get these carts against him.”
Zheng, 22, who is coached by Pere Riba, says he is looking forward to closing the gap in the coming months and years.
“After this loss, I feel happy because I do better each time,” he said. “There are many opportunities for us to improve. I hope I can close the gap and overcome this challenge.”
