Peng encouraged by performance despite loss

The surprise singles play of Peng Shuai at the China Open came to a halt on Friday, but the confidence she earned helped her march to victory in doubles play with partner Hsieh Su-Wei of Chinese Taipei.

Peng, who beat top seeds Jelena Jankovic of Servia and Maria Sharapova of Russia, was bested by 13th seed Nadia Petrova of Russia, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-2 in the women's quarterfinals. Peng's compatriots Zheng Jie and Li Na were knocked out in earlier rounds.

But Peng regained her form later in doubles play, knocking out Alisa Kleybanova and Francesca Schiavone with partner Hsieh in women's doubles, 6-2, 6-3.