Former Australian Open finalist Zheng Qinwen withdraws for recovery

WUHAN: China’s Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen has announced her withdrawal from the Australian Open, revealing that she needs more time to fully recover after undergoing surgery on her elbow.

Zheng, the world number 24, opted for arthroscopic surgery on her right elbow last year. She had previously reached the Melbourne final in 2024, but following the surgery, decided to take a break from the sport.

She did not compete in the US Open and made her comeback in September at the China Open. However, she was forced to withdraw from her third-round match due to recurring elbow pain.

Despite the setback, Zheng referred to Melbourne as her ‘lucky place’, where she claimed her first Grand Slam main-draw victory and enjoyed one of her best experiences on tour.

She expressed the emotional difficulty of making this decision, highlighting her strong connection to the city and her anticipation of starting her new season at Melbourne Park.

"Making this decision has been incredibly difficult for me. Melbourne is my 'lucky place', where I won my first Grand Slam main draw match and had my best experience," Zheng said in a statement on Instagram.

"I have a special connection to this place, and I was very eager to begin my new season at Melbourne Park."

It is pertinent to mention that the 23-year-old is the second player from her country to reach an Australian Open final after Li Na.

The first Grand Slam of the season is scheduled to begin on 18 January.