PARIS — Prime-ranked Aryna Sabalenka defeated Zheng Qinwen in straight units to succeed in the French Open semifinals for the second time Tuesday.
Sabalenka, who’s chasing her first title at Roland-Garros, overcame a shaky begin and windy situations to prevail 7-6 (3), 6-3 and prolong her document in opposition to the Olympic champion to 7-1.
The rating didn’t absolutely mirror the closeness of the quarterfinal, although, with so little separating the rivals. However Sabalenka demonstrated why she was the world No. 1, making the distinction on large factors, whereas Zheng struggled together with her serve in tense moments.
Sabalenka will attempt to attain her sixth Grand Slam closing, and first at Roland-Garros, in opposition to defending champion Iga Swiatek or Elina Svitolina.
Sabalenka misplaced her most up-to-date match in opposition to Zheng final month in Rome, having beforehand dominated their first six encounters. She stated that loss was really a very good factor in the midst of an already exhausting season.
“I used to be really glad I misplaced that match, as a result of I wanted a bit break earlier than Roland-Garros,” Sabalenka stated. “In the present day, I used to be simply extra recent. I used to be able to battle, I used to be prepared to depart every part I had on court docket to get this win.”
Sabalenka, a three-time main champion, has but to drop a set in Paris.
Zheng began robust on Courtroom Philippe-Chatrier, breaking early and dominating with aggressive play.
Nonetheless, two double faults within the eighth sport allowed Sabalenka to interrupt again and shift the momentum.
A misjudged name by Zheng within the twelfth sport practically value her, however she fought off a set level to pressure a tiebreaker. Sabalenka remained extra constant and secured the set after Zheng hit lengthy on a drop shot.
Zheng saved a break level with an overhead shot within the fifth sport of the second set, however Sabalenka’s highly effective backhand return pinned her down on the following one, permitting the top-ranked participant to maneuver forward 3-2. Zheng didn’t go down and not using a battle, although, and broke again instantly, solely to drop her two final service video games.
The loss ended a run of 10 consecutive match wins for Zheng at Roland-Garros, courting to final summer time’s Olympic Video games.