Zhu Lin Triumphs Over Raducanu in Ningbo Open First Round

Ningbo, China — Zhu Lin won 16 of the last 19 points to defeat Emma Raducanu in the first round of the AUX Ningbo Open on Tuesday. Raducanu struggled with injuries throughout the match, requiring two medical time-outs.

This match marked the return of three champions from Grand Slam or WTA 1000 tournaments, but none advanced past the first round. Marketa Vondrousova, returning from a knee injury, lost to fellow Czech player Karolina Muchova 6-4, 6-3. Victoria Mboko also faced defeat, overpowered by Dayana Yastremska, who overcame a second-set deficit to win 6-3, 7-6(3).

Zhu, currently ranked No. 219, competed in Ningbo as a wild card. The 31-year-old, who missed the Chinese swing last year due to an elbow injury, expressed her determination to perform well in this tournament. “This year, I’m trying my best to perform,” she told the crowd after her match.

Raducanu initially led the match but faltered in crucial moments, particularly in the final set. After a solid start, she faced numerous challenges from Zhu, who began seizing control with cleaner shots and longer rallies. Despite showing grit with her comeback, Raducanu couldn’t maintain her momentum and ultimately lost the match 3-6, 6-4, 6-1.

In the next round, Zhu Lin will face No. 1 seed Mirra Andreeva, with whom she previously competed three weeks ago in Beijing. Zhu seeks to build on her recent success, including her second Top 30 win of the year.

In another match, Dayana Yastremska put an end to her losing streak, showcasing powerful play despite the challenges she faced earlier in the tournament. Yastremska will confront Elena Rybakina, who is also in contention for the WTA Finals.

Meanwhile, Muchova’s victory over Vondrousova was bittersweet as both are friends and members of the same club in Prague. Muchova praised Vondrousova’s talent, noting, “I wish her the best. She’s such a great player and competitor.” Muchova will next face No. 7 seed Diana Shnaider.