Chinese tennis star Zheng Qinwen has announced a scheduling change for the start of the 2025 season, opting not to compete in the United Cup prior to the Australian Open. The world No. 5, who made her debut at the event last season, had initially committed to representing her country in Australia once again.
After a demanding and successful 2024 season, which culminated in a runner-up finish at the WTA Finals, Zheng expressed that she needs additional time to rest and prepare for the upcoming year. In an Instagram Story, she stated, “Hi everyone, just a quick update that I’m sadly not going to be competing at the United Cup next week. After the long season that 2024 was for me, I need a few extra weeks of rest, recovery, and good training to get ready for the new season.”
Zheng reflected on her positive experience at the United Cup in January, adding, “I had such a fantastic time at the United Cup and therefore will miss the event greatly. Still, I am so excited to be back in Australia soon and I will see you all in Melbourne in a couple of weeks.” Her spot in the tournament will be filled by world No. 175 Gao Xinyu.
During the 2024 United Cup, Zheng led China to the quarterfinals, securing singles victories against Czech Republic’s Marketa Vondrousova and Serbia’s Olga Danilovic. However, she faced challenges in mixed doubles, where she and partner Zhang Zhizhen were defeated by Vondrousova and Jiri Lehecka, as well as Danilovic and Novak Djokovic. Despite these setbacks, Zheng’s performance was instrumental in advancing China to the quarterfinals, where she suffered her first singles loss to Iga Swiatek.
Looking ahead, Zheng aims for a strong showing at the Australian Open, which begins on January 12, 2025, despite her withdrawal from the United Cup.
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