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Elise Mertens beats Iga Swiatek to set up semifinal against Zheng Qinwen in China Open

Belgian tennis star Elise Mertens advanced to the semifinals of the China Open in Beijing after a hard-fought victory over world No. 1 Iga Świątek in the quarterfinals.

Mertens’ win sets up a potential showdown with Zheng Qinwen, who also secured her spot in the last four by defeating Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina in her own quarterfinal match. Both matches took place on Friday, October 9, 2026, marking a pivotal day in the tournament’s women’s singles draw.

Mertens’ triumph over Świątek, a dominant force in the sport, adds to the intrigue ahead of her semifinal clash with Zheng, who has been a standout performer in the event so far.

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