Wuhan feels like home to serial winner Sabalenka
The Straits Times|October 14, 2024
Aryna Sabalenka became the first player to win the Wuhan Open three times by defeating local heroine Zheng Qinwen 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 in the final on Oct 13.

The top seed, who also triumphed at the event in 2018 and 2019, kept her undefeated record in Wuhan intact, improving to a perfect 17-0.

“That sounds crazy, and this place definitely feels like home,” Sabalenka said about the achievement.

“But first of all, I want to congratulate Zheng on an incredible week for her. Her and her team are doing an amazing job, well done. I’m pretty sure we are going to play many more finals against each other.

“And of course, thank you guys (crowd) for coming and bringing an amazing atmosphere out there. Even though you were supporting her, I really enjoyed playing in front of you. I got support throughout the tournament, so thank you so much.”

In a rematch of the 2024 Australian Open final, Sabalenka was put to the test by a gritty Zheng before she captured an Open era record fifth title on Chinese soil.

This story is from the October 14, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.

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This story is from the October 14, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.

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