In a thrilling match at the Toray Pan Pacific Open, top seed Zheng Qinwen from China emerged victorious against American wild card Sofia Kenin, winning with a score of 7-6 (5), 6-3. This victory, achieved on October 27, 2024, not only earned Zheng the title but also secured her place in the upcoming WTA Finals.
Zheng, currently ranked No. 7, showcased her exceptional skills by firing 16 aces and facing only one break point throughout the 1 hour and 52-minute match. This win marks her third title of the year and her first on hard courts since her triumph in Guangzhou last year.
In contrast, Sofia Kenin, who was once ranked as high as No. 4 in the world, put forth one of her best performances of the season. Despite her impressive showing, Kenin has struggled with injuries that have significantly affected her WTA ranking, which currently sits at 155.
The WTA Finals are set to begin on November 2 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where Zheng will compete among the best players in women’s tennis.