Nearing her 32nd birthday, Chinese star's sparkling showing in Istanbul could foreshadow greater glory, writes AFP.

Li Na's superb performance in getting to the final of the season-ending WTA Championships was an eye-opener for those who suggested her best was behind her.

Instead, at the age of 31, Li has not only become the first Asian to reach world No 3, but her game is evolving cleverly enough to hope for further triumphs in 2014.