Wed Oct 02 12:22:21 UTC 2024: ## Zhang Shuai Ends 20-Month Losing Streak with Third Straight Win in Beijing
**BEIJING, CHINA -** Zhang Shuai, the 35-year-old Chinese tennis player, has defied the odds and overcome a demoralizing 24-match losing streak to secure her third straight victory at the Beijing WTA 1000 event. This remarkable run sees her reach the round of 16, a far cry from her recent slump that saw her plummet to 595th in the world rankings.
Zhang’s previous victory came in January 2023, before she endured a 20-month drought. Her resurgence in Beijing began with a hard-fought win over Mccartney Kessler in the first round, followed by an upset against in-form Emma Navarro.
She then delivered a dominant performance against Greet Minnen, a close friend who she credits with helping her through a difficult period. Zhang, who had been away from home for three years due to her relentless tournament schedule, was touched by Minnen’s gesture of waiting for her after a doubles final and driving her to the next tournament.
The veteran player showcased impressive form against Minnen, hitting 29 winners and just nine unforced errors. She will now face Magdalena Frech in the round of 16.
Despite her recent struggles in singles, Zhang remains a force to be reckoned with in doubles, having already secured two Grand Slam titles. This win in Beijing represents a chance for her to revive her singles career and potentially climb back up the rankings.
First Piper 