Wang Xiyu Shocks Fran Jones in WTA 250 Guangzhou Open First Round

GUANGZHOU, China — Wild-card entry Wang Xiyu upset seventh-seeded Fran Jones in the first round of the WTA 250 Guangzhou Open on Monday, winning 6-4, 6-4.

Jones, the British No. 4 and seeded seventh, initially held the higher ranking at No. 85, while Wang was ranked 145. However, Wang came into the match with recent success at ITF tournaments, including a win in this event last year.

Wang had a strong home crowd cheering her on and capitalized on her experience, which proved crucial during the match that lasted one hour and 58 minutes. After the victory, Wang advanced to face Italy’s Elisabetta Cocciaretto, who defeated Diane Parry in a dramatic match.

Cocciaretto managed to win after overcoming multiple match points, tightening her record against Parry to 2-1.

In another surprising match, qualifier Lulu Sun defeated top seed Jessica Bouzas Maneiro of Spain, 7-6(3), 7-6(2), punctuated by her eight aces and capitalizing on Bouzas Maneiro’s nine double faults.

Sun’s victory was notable as she has now upset a No. 1 seed in four tournaments consecutively. Meanwhile, Tiantsoa Sarah Rakotomanga Rajaonah from France also achieved an upset by defeating eighth-seeded Polina Kudermetova of Russia, 1-6, 6-1, 6-2.

On the American front, second seed Ann Li came back to defeat Andorran lucky loser Jimenez Kasintseva, 6-4, 7-6(4), despite trailing early in both sets.

The tournament continues, with notable names and rising stars vying for victory in Guangzhou. Each match promises to deliver exciting moments, showcasing both talent and determination.