Zheng, Andreeva Reach China Open Final

Nikola Bartunkova reached her first WTA 1000 semifinal at the China Open after routing Karolina Muchova 6-3, 6-0, but lost to 19-year-old Mirra Andreeva 6-2, 6-2. Andreeva advanced to the final against home favorite Zheng Qinwen, who defeated Elise Mertens 7-5, 6-2. Zheng, an Olympic champion returning to form after elbow surgery, became the tournament’s first Chinese finalist and could become its first Chinese champion; Andreeva could become the youngest champion since 2007. Andreeva recorded her 50th win of the season and is assured a career-high world ranking of No. 3, while Zheng’s run will return her to the top 30.