Zheng Zaps Sabalenka For First Title In San Jose

Zheng Saisai took her first career WTA title today in San Jose dismissing the powerful Aryna Sabalenka, 6-3, 7-6(3).

The 25-year-old Zheng was appearing in her second career WTA final after Nanchang last year. En route, the 55th-ranked Zheng upset four Top 35 players including Danille Collins, Amanda Anisimova, Maria Sakkari and today the 10th-ranked Sabalenka.

“I played every match on Stadium Court, and from the first match, I heard so many people cheering for me, and I was surprised because I felt like I was far from home, playing in the States,” said Zheng. “It turns out there are a lot of Chinese fans and even the local people started to support me after my second match. I really appreciated that.”

Sabalenka, who double faulted down match point, falls to 3-4 in WTA finals.

“It brings up so much confidence,” Zheng added. “I hadn’t been winning and then here, I beat many seeded players. But everyone is different, and rankings can’t tell you how strong a player can be, because everyone can win if they play well. I’m not going to relax, and feel like I’m unbelievable!.”