In a significant breakthrough at the 2025 Italian Open, China’s Zheng Qinwen secured her first victory over world number one Aryna Sabalenka, winning 6-4, 6-3 in the quarterfinals. This triumph not only advances qinwen to the semifinals but also marks a pivotal moment in her career, as she overcame a psychological hurdle that had previously hindered her performance against top-tier opponents.
A History of Deference
Prior to this match, Qinwen had faced Sabalenka six times without a win, managing to claim only one set across those encounters. Reflecting on these past performances, Qinwen acknowledged that excessive respect for Sabalenka had affected her gameplay.
“The few times I faced her in the beginning, I gave her too much respect,” Qinwen stated. “I didn’t face her like a normal player.”
Qinwen recalled watching Sabalenka compete in the 2017 China Open as a teenager, an experience that left a lasting impression. Her father had emphasized studying Sabalenka’s techniques, which contributed to Qinwen’s perception of her as an almost insurmountable opponent.
A Shift in Mindset
The match in Rome signified a turning point for Qinwen, both mentally and tactically. Playing on clay—a surface where she feels more comfortable—Qinwen exhibited patience and strategic play, capitalizing on Sabalenka’s unforced errors. This victory not only ended Sabalenka’s nine-match winning streak on clay but also demonstrated Zheng’s growth as a competitor.(Reuters, Flashscore)
“This is the first time we’ve played on clay,” Zheng noted. “I guess when I play on clay, I’m more comfortable because I’ve got great experience on clay.”
Zheng’s ability to maintain composure and execute her game plan effectively was evident throughout the match, reflecting her maturation as a player.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Zheng advances to the semifinals of the Italian Open, where she will face world number three Coco Gauff. This upcoming match presents another opportunity for Zheng to test her skills against a top-ranked opponent and further solidify her position among the elite in women’s tennis.
As the French Open approaches, Zheng’s performance in Rome serves as a confidence booster and a testament to her evolving mindset. By overcoming the psychological barriers that once impeded her, Zheng is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming Grand Slam tournaments.
