Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic kicks off his 375th career week at No. 1, and is on the verge of even more history.

Zhu Lin of China won her maiden career title after beating Lesia Tsurenko of Ukraine in the final of the Thailand Open.

Sunday's singles finals in Hua Hin and Lyon feature four players from four nations and several storylines that could prove even richer as 2023 unfolds.

Lesia Tsurenko of Ukraine has reached her first final in four years after the top-seeded Bianca Andreescu retired with a shoulder injury during their semifinal match at the Thailand Open.

A contemporary of Caroline Garcia and Ons Jabeur, the Chinese veteran is coming into her own in Melbourne with a chance to reach a first Grand Slam quarterfinal.

The 18-year-old served eight aces and didn't face a break point against Zhu Lin to advance, 6-3, 6-2, on Friday at the ASB Classic.

Meanwhile, Coco Gauff dispatched countrywoman Sofia Kenin, 6-4, 6-4, on Thursday at the ASB Classic.

The first week of events are down as the tour plays on across the continent.

After going down a break in the first set, the 2017 US Open finalist rallied to win 11 of the last 13 games.