The Russian continues his great week. Samsonova has been able to be right in the most important moments against Zheng (6-4, 1-6, 6-4) and will fight for the trophy in Sunday’s final.
tournament bracket
tournament results
With Belinda Bencic in the final Abu Dhabi another semi-final match Zheng only Samsonova. The Chinese had shown a great future that awaits her in the coming years on the women’s circuit. In Abu Dhabi, he had passed Marino, Ostapenko and Kasatkina. Waiting in front was Samsonova, who enjoyed herself in Abu Dhabi. Face-to-face two previous clashes in which both sides won. An even duel was expected, where small details could make the difference between victory and defeat.
Samsonova to the final
Zheng started on the scoreboard, but Samsonova struck first in the match after a tear, which she confirmed to go 3-1. From that moment on, services began to be ordered without any major problems. Samsonova was the one in control, constantly trying to hit the ball with her stroke, which she had looked very comfortable with all week. Zheng was getting more comfortable, but that break point didn’t arrive to give him a chance to come back. The first sleeve finally chose The 6-4 Russian tennis player took the first set and was closer to reaching the final.
Qinwen Zheng became much more inspired in the second set and quickly ran to 5-0. Samsonova didn’t hold back against a player who brought out her best version. In the end, the Russian was able to level the score 6-1 Zheng ended up forcing the third and final set.
In the third quarter, Samsonova started uncertainly. The Russian had to save three break points in his first two servings. Zheng didn’t take advantage of his opportunities, and he had to pay dearly for it. The Chinese enjoyed himself and looked confident in his game, but being behind the scoreboard hurt him. Samsonova, after winning the ninth game with white, was left to take the victory. Zheng noticed the pressure and at 15-40 the Russian had two match points. At the first opportunity he closed the meeting and managed to reach the WTA Abu Dhabi finals.
