Zhang downs Kerber, sets up Osaka clash

Beijing, October 4 

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Zhang Shuai stunned Wimbledon Champion Angelique Kerber 6-1 2-6 6-0 in the China Open on Thursday to set up a quarterfinal clash with Naomi Osaka. “I can defeat a former No. 1, a Grand Slam champion, this is something I’m proud of for the rest of my life,” an elated Zhang said.

Osaka thumped Julia Goerges 6-1 6-2 and described the performance as her best of the tournament so far.

China’s Wang Qiang advanced with a 6-4 6-4 win over world No. 7 Karolina Pliskova, while Kiki Bertens crashed out after a 6-4 6-3 defeat by Katerina Siniakova.

Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki clinched a place in the season-ending tournament alongside Petra Kvitova after beating Estonia’s Anett Kontaveit 7-5 6-4.

The in-form Aryna Sabalenka knocked out defending champion Caroline Garcia 5-7 7-6(3) 6-0. — Reuters