BEIJING, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's wildcard player Zhang Shuai upset world No. 8 Emma Navarro of the United States 6-4, 6-2 in just 75 minutes to advance to the last 32 at the 2024 China Open on Friday.
"To everyone who came here today, you have given me the tremendous courage to stand on this court where I have created many miracles. Today, I overcame such a strong opponent once again. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful time with me," Zhang said after the match.
"I think many fans support me, but there are also many who believe that I can no longer play such good tennis. 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," added the current world No. 595.
Zhang ended her 24-match losing streak on Wednesday by defeating American player McCartney Kessler in the first round of the tournament. ■