ITF Nottingham W50: Zhang Shuai dominates Valdemanova, advancing to the final with four consecutive wins.

On July 18, 2025, the women's singles semifinals of the Nottingham W50 concluded, with top seed and Chinese star Zhang Shuai showcasing a powerful performance. After a 4-4 tie in the first set, she launched an impressive run, winning 8 consecutive games to ultimately defeat Valdemanova 6-4, 6-0, securing her place in the final.

 Zhang Shuai profile picture

After finishing her campaign at Wimbledon, Zhang Shuai did not leave the UK immediately but chose to return to Nottingham to compete in the ITF W50 event. As the top seed, she advanced easily through the earlier rounds, and after winning the semifinals, she earned 33 ranking points and $1,842 in prize money, elevating her live ranking to No. 112. If she can clinch the title in the final, she has a chance to return to the TOP 100 during the North American season.

In April, during a break in the clay court season, Zhang Shuai achieved her 27th career title (including ITF and WTA levels) by winning 5 consecutive matches at the ITF Qifu W100. In the final, her opponent was the 6th seed, French player Chen Xia Lini, who advanced by coming back to defeat local player Stoyber 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the semifinals. Zhang Shuai is now aiming for her second title of the season.

(Text and editing by: Dato, Image: Li Jianyi)