Tue Nov 05 17:43:35 UTC 2024: ## Sabalenka Starts WTA Finals Strong, Defeats Zheng in Riyadh Debut
**RIYADH, Saudi Arabia** – World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka kicked off her WTA Finals campaign in Riyadh with a dominant 6-3, 6-4 victory over Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen. The Belarusian star secured her fifth win in as many encounters against the Chinese player in a match that showcased her powerful serving and aggressive play.
The match, held at the King Saud University Indoor Arena, saw Sabalenka dominate the points behind her first serve, winning 18 of 19. She also capitalized on her second serve, breaking Zheng in the third game of the first set to secure a 4-2 advantage.
Despite a valiant effort from Zheng, who was cheered on by a vocal Chinese contingent in the crowd, Sabalenka continued her strong performance in the second set. She secured a crucial break in the ninth game before serving out the match to victory.
Sabalenka, a three-time Grand Slam champion, is aiming for a maiden trophy at the prestigious season finale, which would also guarantee her the year-end No. 1 ranking. “It’s going to mean everything for me, it’s one of my dreams,” she said on court. “I have really worked hard over the past few years, and I really hope that one day I’ll be able to hold this beautiful trophy.”
Meanwhile, WTA Finals debutante Jasmine Paolini secured a surprise victory over Elena Rybakina, winning 7-6 (5), 6-4. Paolini, who reached the finals in Paris and Wimbledon this year, is at a career-high ranking of No. 4.
Rybakina, who had been sidelined by injuries and illness, was playing her first match since withdrawing from the US Open in September.
The tournament in Riyadh marks the first ever professional women’s tennis tournament held in Saudi Arabia. The event has also attracted the attention of international celebrities, with Brazilian soccer star Neymar making a special appearance. He met Sabalenka after her match, gifted her a signed jersey, and even watched the rest of the action from the stands.
The WTA Finals in Riyadh continues with more exciting matches scheduled for the coming days.
First Piper 