Zheng takes the title in Tokyo

This was one of his major objectives for the end of the season.

Since her Olympic triumph this summer, Qinwen Zheng's national popularity has soared, as have the expectations placed upon her.

At the start of the Asian tour, the world number 7 made no secret of her ambitions: she wanted a title.

But she almost didn't succeed. Beaten in the semi-finals in Beijing (by Muchova, 6-3, 6-4) and then in the final in Wuhan (by Sabalenka, 6-3, 5-7, 6-3), she had to wait for her last chance, this week in Tokyo, to win the long-awaited title.

Favored in the draw and benefiting from a favorable draw, the Chinese player held her ground perfectly right to the end, leaving Japan with the title.

Faced with the astonishing Sofia Kenin in the final, Zheng managed the important points perfectly to win in two sets and just over 2 hours (7-6, 6-3).

A consecration she deserved, given her fine season!