World number one Serena Williams secured her 10th title of the season after securing the China Open crown in Beijing on Sunday after defeating former top-ranked Jelena Jankovic of Serbia 6-2, 6-2.
The American seemed headed to winning the Premier Mandatory-level event after she cruised 6-2, 1-1 before she was seen being bothered by back pain. This seemed to have temporarily gave Jankovic momentum as she broke the American’s serve 2-1.
However, the changeover seemed to have brought the groove back to Williams and she went on to win the next five games to close out the match in one hour and 28 minutes at 6-2, 6-2.
This is Williams’ 56th career WTA title. She’s now alone in seventh place in all-time list of most WTA titles.
Despite the loss, Jankovic remained upbeat and thanked the crowd. The Serbian tennis star is the only player to have participated in all ten editions of China Open.
“I had a great week playing in this beautiful venue,” Jankovic said to the crowd. “I always enjoy coming back to the China Open – it’s a pleasure for me to play in front of you all in the finals again.
“Serena was just too good today, and big congratulations to her.”
