Zheng Qinwen reaches US Open qualifying final round

China's Zheng Qinwen defeated France's Clara Burel in straight sets to reach the final round of US Open qualifying on Wednesday.

Olympic champion Zheng broke first to take a 3-1 lead and maintained her momentum to win the opening set 6-1.

Both players struggled on serve in the second set, with Zheng committing six double faults. However, Zheng performed better on the key points to take the set 7-5 and seal victory. She will next face Russia's Elena Pridankina.

This marks Zheng's first appearance in Grand Slam qualifying since the 2022 Australian Open. Affected by injuries in recent years, Zheng is currently ranked 121st in women's singles.

Another Chinese player, Yuan Yue, saw off Russia's Julia Avdeeva 6-3, 6-2 to move within one win of the main draw.

In men's qualifying, China's Buyunchaokete beat Croatia's Borna Gojo 6-4, 6-4 to cruise into the final round.

The final 16 players in both the men's and women's singles qualifying competitions will advance to the US Open main draw.