Home veteran Zhang Shuai continues to advance at China Open

Zhang Shuai of China upset No. 6 seed Emma Navarro of the U.S. 6-4, 6-2 in the women's singles second-round match at the China Open in Beijing on Friday, continuing her impressive journey at the tournament.

Having ended her 24-match singles losing streak with a victory over McCartney Kessler of the U.S. in the first round, 35-year-old Zhang showed remarkable aggression against this year's U.S. Open semifinalist Navarro. The Chinese veteran led in nearly all stats, including first serve percentage, first serve points won and break points converted.

Zhang, who currently ranks No. 595 on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) table, defeated a world top-10 player (No. 8) from the lowest ranking in China Open history. It was also her ninth win over a top-10 opponent in her career.

"I want to thank every supporter who came here today for the courage you gave me," Zhang said after the match. "I was able to stand on this court, where I have created so many miracles, because of you. Today I beat another strong opponent. Thank you for sharing this amazing moment with me."

"I know that many didn't think I can perform like this again because I have aged and lost my strength," she added. "I just wanted to show everyone that my efforts every day is not wasted. I believe in chasing your dream. You got to work on it and go after it. It has nothing to do with your age."

Zhang's next opponent will be Greet Minnen of Belgium.

Another Chinese player Wang Xinyu lost to No. 32 seed Veronika Kudermetova of Russia 6-3, 4-6, 5-7 on Friday. Fourth-seeded Coco Gauff of the U.S. beat Clara Burel of France 7-5, 6-3 in her first match since the U.S. Open.