Although the Russian player held a 2-0 advantage in each set and was ahead 5-4 during the first, Zheng successfully saved three set points and swept the final 11 points to claim the opening set 7-5.
Unforced errors persisted from Andreeva throughout the second set, which remained closely contested at 4-4 until Zheng seized total command.
The spectators showed great fervor, albeit causing occasional disturbances between rallies, while a late double fault by Zheng during the closing moments temporarily endangered a historic event for tennis in China.
However, she avoided a late breakdown and clinched the triumph by serving an ace.
“It seemed as though I had forgotten the spirit of competition following my injury layoff,” she stated to the press.
“At last, following numerous defeats, I [rediscovered] my competitive drive,” she remarked.
This triumph marks her 14th victory against a player in the top 10, as well as her third such win this year.
Even with the defeat, Andreeva is projected to ascend to world number three upon the release of the updated rankings this coming Monday.
Meanwhile, Zheng is poised to jump 31 places to reach 23rd in the standings before taking part in the Wuhan Open this Tuesday.
“I am truly eager for what lies ahead,” expressed Zheng.
“My goal is simply to give it my all.”
