Zheng Qinwen Reflects on US Open Exit and Ambitions in China
NEW YORK, September 4, 2024 (BSS/AFP) – Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen has attributed her disappointing quarter-final exit at the US Open to a sleepless night, following an exceptionally late match finish. However, she remains optimistic about her upcoming return to China, aiming to secure more favorable match schedules in her home country’s tournaments.
Facing world number two Aryna Sabalenka on Tuesday evening, Zheng had previously endured a grueling late-night finish, concluding her last-16 victory over Donna Vekic at 2:15 a.m.
The 21-year-old revealed she struggled to rest after the late match, managing just a few hours of sleep before having to take on Sabalenka. “I couldn’t sleep after I finished the match at 2:30 in the morning. I’m not able to practice yesterday because I was feeling terrible. I couldn’t wake up,” Zheng lamented following her 6-1, 6-2 loss.
Acknowledging the challenging circumstances, Zheng accepted the unpredictable nature of competition schedules. Reflecting on the missed opportunity to practice due to fatigue, she maintained a positive outlook despite the setback.
Zheng had previously faced Sabalenka at the same stage of the US Open in 2023, suffering defeat, and had also finished as the runner-up to the Belarusian in the Australian Open final earlier in the year.
Looking ahead, the Chinese tennis star anticipates returning to her homeland for the Asian tournament circuit, expressing confidence in receiving more advantageous match timings and conditions, particularly during the WTA event in her hometown of Wuhan in October.
“I’m sure they will put me in prime time all the time. They will not put me late like here, I’m sure, and I will always get the court when I want, how long I want,” Zheng declared with conviction.
In Zhao’s vision, the prospect of enhanced scheduling reflects her growing profile and success in the sport, contrasting with the challenges faced at international competitions like the US Open. She highlighted the anticipated support in Wuhan, envisioning a warm reception and greater ease in securing court time for training and matches.
“As I think about it, I’m happy to be back in Wuhan. This is the best thing because here it is not easy to get the court. I have to fight a lot, even when I’m seeded. I’m sure there will be my pictures in Wuhan,” Zhao expressed, looking forward to reconnecting with her roots and the enthusiastic home crowd support in her upcoming tournaments.