Olympic gold medallist Zheng Qinwen has officially withdrawn from the 2025 U.S. Open, citing recovery from minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery on her right elbow. The announcement was made public by both tournament organisers and Zheng herself in mid‑July, confirming what had been suspected following weeks of speculation regarding her absence from recent events.
Zheng, currently ranked world No. 6, confirmed through her Instagram channel in late July that she had been enduring “persistent pain” in her right elbow during training and competition. Despite extensive non-surgical treatments, including physiotherapy and rest, the pain persisted, prompting Zheng and her team to seek medical advice. Specialists recommended immediate surgical intervention to prevent long-term damage and ensure a full recovery.
The procedure—a targeted arthroscopy aimed at resolving inflammation and tendon irritation—was successfully performed around July 19, with Zheng now expected to undergo a structured rehabilitation process. In her own words, she described the surgery as a “necessary step toward a better version of myself on court” and emphasized her commitment to returning stronger and healthier.
Career Context and 2025 Season So Far
Zheng enjoyed a breakout season in 2024, clinching Olympic gold at the Paris Games and reaching the final of the Australian Open. Her surge continued into early 2025 with a semifinal appearance at the Rome WTA event and a strong showing at Queen’s Club. However, this year’s Wimbledon marked a setback—Zheng suffered a first‑round exit at the hands of Katerina Siniakova and has been seen wearing an elbow compression sleeve since January, hinting at underlying issues.
Persistent discomfort forced her withdrawal from the Berlin Tennis Open (initially announced as a neck issue) and the Mubadala Citi DC Open. While Zheng remained cautiously optimistic, the growing concerns around her elbow ultimately led to the surgery and her decision to skip the U.S. Open.
Impact on the U.S. Open Draw
Zheng’s withdrawal leaves a vacant No. 6 seed position in the U.S. Open main draw, which is scheduled to begin on August 24 in New York. France’s Leolia Jeanjean has been promoted to fill the spot, ensuring the tournament maintains its competitive structure.
Recovery Outlook and Future Plans
According to Zheng and her support team, the rehabilitation phase will focus on gradually rebuilding strength, flexibility, and match readiness. Although no specific date for her return has been announced, Zheng has reiterated her intention to make a “stronger comeback” later this season. Given the expected recovery timeline of several months for arthroscopic elbow surgery, her next target might be the indoor hard‑court season or even later tournaments, depending on her rehab progres.
Broader Implications
Zheng’s absence is a significant shift in the women’s draw at Flushing Meadows. Her dynamic baseline play, heavy topspin forehand, and athletic presence have made her a rising force on tour. With her sidelined, the field may see new opportunities emerge—especially among top players like Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff. For Zheng personally, the enforced break offers a chance to address chronic injury and mentally recalibrate, with an eye toward regaining her trajectory.
Final Take
The decision by Zheng Qinwen to prioritize her long‑term health over short‑term results is both prudent and professional. While fans and the tennis community will miss her presence at the U.S. Open, her transparent communication and focus on recovery reflect a mature, athlete‑first approach. As the summer unfolds, the tennis world will follow her rehabilitation journey closely, eager for her stage‑ready return.
In the meantime, the women’s singles event at the U.S. Open will proceed without one of its brightest young stars—but with the assurance that Zheng is setting the stage for a stronger comeback.
