The WTA Beijing semifinals are set, and nobody’s script coming into the draw survived the week intact, but now the final four are one win away from a shot at the title. Zheng Qinwen has kept the home crowd dreaming with an impressive run, Elise Mertens has added a major scalp by beating Iga Swiatek in straight sets, and Nikola Bartunkova has emerged as the tournament’s unexpected disruptor. Standing in her way is Mirra Andreeva, whose composure under pressure will be tested by one of the most remarkable breakthrough runs of the season.
WTA Beijing Semifinal Predictions
Elise Mertens vs Zheng Qinwen
Head-to-head: Zheng 1-0 Mertens
Mertens has earned her place in this semifinal by taking down Iga Swiatek in straight sets, setting up a meeting with home favourite Zheng. It is a significant opportunity for the Belgian, whose movement, consistency and tactical discipline can make life difficult for even the most aggressive opponents. Zheng, however, will carry the crowd’s support at WTA Beijing and the confidence of her own impressive run.
The key will be whether Mertens can take the sting out of Zheng’s serve and forehand without allowing herself to become too passive. The Chinese star has the power to dictate from the baseline, but Mertens’ ability to redirect pace and extend rallies could force her into uncomfortable positions. Zheng won their only previous meeting in Charleston in 2025, and her aggressive baseline game should give her opportunities to take control.
Mertens’ victory over Swiatek proves she cannot be underestimated, but Zheng’s heavier groundstrokes and home-court momentum give her a narrow edge in what should be a competitive contest.
Prediction: Zheng in 3
Mar 20, 2025; Miami, FL, USA; Zheng Qinwen (CHN) serves against Lauren Davis (USA) on day three of the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Mirra Andreeva vs Nikola Bartunkova
Head-to-head: Andreeva 1-0 Bartunkova
This is a fascinating meeting at WTA Beijing between an established young star and a player enjoying a remarkable breakthrough week. Andreeva has already demonstrated her ability to handle pressure, surviving two tiebreaks against Ekaterina Alexandrova to reach the semifinals. Bartunkova, meanwhile, has become one of the stories of the tournament, following her upset of Aryna Sabalenka with a commanding 6-3 6-0 win over Karolina Muchova.
Their previous meeting came at the US Open, where Andreeva won in straight sets. That result gives the Russian a useful reference point, but Bartunkova’s run in Beijing suggests she is playing with a new level of confidence. Her touch, willingness to move forward and ability to change the rhythm could trouble Andreeva, who will need to use her greater experience at this stage to control the baseline exchanges.
Bartunkova has already shown she can beat elite opposition, but Andreeva’s consistency and ability to raise her level in the biggest moments make her the more reliable pick. The Czech should make this competitive, but Andreeva’s greater experience in high-pressure matches could prove decisive at WTA Beijing.
Prediction: Andreeva in 3
Main photo credit: REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz