Aryna Sabalenka is the first player to secure a semi-final spot at the WTA Finals but her victory over Jasmine Paolini spells the end of the road for Elena Rybakina.

RIYADH, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) — China's top-ranked tennis player Zheng Qinwen triumphed over Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan in three sets at the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Monday, securing her first victory in the tournament.

In her most recent match on September 30, 2024, Sabalenka won 6-2, 6-2 against Ashlyn Krueger in the Round of 32 of the China Open. In her last match, which was slated for August 29, 2024 at the US Open, Rybakina was eliminated against Jessika Ponchet via walkover.