Wed Oct 02 12:26:25 UTC 2024: ## Chinese Veteran Zhang Shuai Upsets US Open Semi-Finalist at China Open

**BEIJING** – In a stunning upset, veteran Chinese player Zhang Shuai, ranked world No. 595, defeated US Open semi-finalist Emma Navarro (world No. 8) 6-4, 6-2 in the second round of the 2024 China Open on Friday.

The 35-year-old Shuai, defying doubters who question her age and fitness, showcased her tenacity and determination on the court, silencing those who believe she’s past her prime. “Many fans support me, but there are also many who believe I can no longer play good tennis,” Shuai said. “They think my age and physical condition are not up to par. I just want to show everyone that my daily efforts have not been in vain. Everyone with a dream should chase it and work hard to make it happen. Dreams have nothing to do with your age.”

However, the day wasn’t entirely positive for Chinese players. Wang Xinyu lost to Russian Veronika Kudermetova in a hard-fought three-set match. Olympic mixed doubles silver medalist Zhang Zhizhen fell to Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the men’s singles first round, narrowly missing out on his first ATP tour title after finishing runner-up at the ATP 250 Hangzhou Tennis Open just three days prior. In a Chinese derby, Buyunchaokete defeated Shang Juncheng in a three-set thriller, claiming his first ATP 500 win and fifth overall on the tour.

While Chinese players faced mixed fortunes, top-ranked players showed their dominance. World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, a four-time major champion, sailed past Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in straight sets, acknowledging the tough challenge despite the straightforward scoreline. Third seed Daniil Medvedev also advanced to the second round after defeating veteran Gael Monfils in the first round.

The China Open continues with more exciting matches on the horizon as players fight for the coveted title.

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