Tunisian star Ons Jabeur bags her fifth WTA title at Ningbo Open

The world number seven Jabeur made quick work of the surprise star of the tournament Russian 19-year-old Diana Shnaider as she dominated her in both sets to win the final 6-2, 6-1.

Moscow-born Shnaider had managed to defeat two-time Wimbledon single titles champion Petra Kvitova, 33, on the way to her maiden career final in just her ninth WTA main draw.

However, despite her brave approach during the tournament, Shnaider was emphatically defeated by the powerful and precise Tunisian in just 78 minutes.

Jabeur had headed into the tournament after taking a last-minute wildcard entry into the Ningbo Open, where she was the top seed.

The title victory in China is her first hard court title of her career. 

Jabeur seemed broken following her recent straight-set Wimbledon final loss to Marketa Vondrousova, which she claimed to be the "most painful loss" of her career. 

"These are little steps to winning a Grand Slam final," said the 29-year-old.

"Playing a final here is more relaxed than playing a Grand Slam final, but I think it will help me gain confidence more, and to help me manage the pressure and stress."

The Tunisian went on to commend Shnaider's performance after the match, predicting that the teenager will cause more upsets in the future.

"I think (Shnaider) is a terrific player and she really gave me a hard time. I know the score is 2 and 1, but it was more difficult than you see it. She has a lot of potential, her game is really solid so I really expect to see her bothering other players."

Jabeur is set to face 19-year-old Ashlyn Krueger on Sunday in a Round of 64 clash at the China Open. The American is currently ranked 75th in the WTA rankings.

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