In a day filled with both triumph and setback, China’s Zheng Qinwen showcased her resilience at the Cincinnati Open on Friday. Due to heavy rainfall disrupting the tournament schedule, Zheng was compelled to complete two women’s singles matches within a single day.
The day began on a high note for Zheng as she faced Poland’s Magdalena Frech in the second round. Displaying powerful baseline attacks, Zheng dominated the first set, securing it 6-1 in just 32 minutes. The second set proved more challenging, but Zheng’s persistence paid off when she broke Frech’s serve in the ninth game. As she prepared to close out the match, the contest was abruptly suspended due to the inclement weather. Upon resumption, Zheng maintained her composure, finishing off the set 7-5 and advancing to the next round.
However, the taxing schedule and personal challenges soon took their toll. Facing Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova later that day, Zheng battled hard but ultimately fell 7-5, 6-1. The Cincinnati Open marked her first tournament appearance after winning gold at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics\u2014a monumental achievement that had already tested her endurance. Additionally, Zheng had been battling a fever since arriving in the United States, which undoubtedly affected her performance and energy levels.
“It’s been a challenging few days,” Zheng admitted after her matches. “Winning gold in Paris was a dream come true, but the quick transition and the fever have been tough. Still, every match is a learning experience, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received.”
Zheng’s determination, even in the face of adversity, has captured the attention of tennis enthusiasts worldwide. Her ability to push through illness and a grueling schedule speaks volumes about her dedication to the sport. As she looks ahead to upcoming tournaments, fans remain eagerly supportive, confident that Zheng Qinwen will continue to make significant strides on the global stage.
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China's Zheng Qinwen wins and then loses in one day at Cincinnati Open
cgtn.com
