Top seed Aryna Sabalenka overcame a brief lapse in the second set to secure her third consecutive Wuhan Open title, defeating China’s fifth seed and local favourite Zheng Qinwen 6-3 5-7 6-3 in the final on Sunday. In the semi-finals on Saturday, Sabalenka had ousted former U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff, delivering seven aces and 32 winners without facing a single break point in the first set.
The 26-year-old from Belarus now leads the WTA-1000 in aces this season, surpassing world number five Elena Rybakina. Although Sabalenka had previously won all three of their encounters in straight sets, including the Australian Open final, she faltered in the second set against the Paris Olympics gold medallist. As Zheng aimed to become only the second Chinese player to win a WTA-1000 title after her idol Li Na’s 2012 Cincinnati victory, Sabalenka surged to a commanding 3-0 double break lead in the decisive set.
Sabalenka clinched her third championship point to secure her fourth victory this year, bringing her total WTA singles titles to 17. She has become the first player to win three consecutive Wuhan Open titles. “It sounds unbelievable, and this place truly feels like home,” Sabalenka remarked about her success. “Firstly, I wish to congratulate team Zheng on an outstanding week. Her efforts, along with her team’s, are remarkable; well done. I’m confident we will face each other in numerous more finals.
“And of course, thank you to the crowd for creating an incredible atmosphere. Even though you were cheering for her, I thoroughly enjoyed playing before you. Your support throughout the tournament has been wonderful, so thank you immensely.” Sabalenka is aiming to reclaim the top ranking in the closing weeks of the season, having already qualified for the season-ending WTA Finals alongside world number one, Iga Swiatek.
