Zhang Shuai becomes China’s last hope at US Open

NEW YORK – Zhang Shuai was left as the last Chinese woman standing at the US Open today after Zheng Qinwen and Yuan Yue crashed out.

Zhang, Zheng, Yuan and Wang Xiyu made history in New York by all reaching the third round – the first time four women from China had advanced to the last 32 at the same tournament.

But China’s hopes of extending their campaign into next week wilted today as both Zheng and Yuan were beaten.

Zheng was ousted by Germany’s Jule Niemeier 6-4, 7-6 (7/5) while Yuan slid to a 6-2, 6-7 (6/8), 6-0 defeat to American eighth seed Jessica Pegula.

With Wang making her exit yesterday, it means Chinese hopes rest with Zhang in tomorrow’s fourth round.

Zhang however faces a daunting assignment with in-form 12th seed Coco Gauff, who has not dropped a set en route to the last 16.

Yesterday, China’s Wu Yibing bowed out of the men’s draw after losing in straight sets to defending champion Daniil Medvedev. – AFP, September 4, 2022