Zheng Qinwen became the first Chinese woman to win the China Open by beating Mirra Andreeva in straight sets in Beijing.
Zheng, who entered the tournament as a wildcard, ranked world number 54, saved three set points in Sunday’s first set before defeating fourth seed Andreeva 7-5, 6-4.
The 24-year-old fell to the ground while getting a match point and treated the rowdy crowd to karaoke after her victory speech.
“It was an incredible feeling. Winning here in Beijing in front of my home crowd is one of my dreams,” she said.
“I’ve had a very, very difficult year.”
For Zheng, who underwent elbow surgery last year, it was a first WTA 1000 title and her sixth title overall. The triumph ends a two-year drought for a player who has struggled with form and fitness over the past 12 months.
Andreeva, 19, was in the lead early in both sets, but was pushed back in both instances.
Gn sports
