For rising tennis sensation Qinwen Zheng, the 2024 Australian Open is a memory etched with both pride and heartbreak. After a crushing defeat to World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the final—losing 6-3, 6-2—the Chinese star has spent the past year haunted by the missed opportunity to secure her first Grand Slam title. As she gears up for the 2025 edition of the tournament, Zheng is determined to turn that pain into fuel for redemption.
The Regret That Won’t Fade
Speaking candidly ahead of her first-round match against Romania’s Anca Todoni, Zheng reflected on last year’s devastating loss, admitting that it’s a memory that still stings deeply.
“That final brings me a lot of good memories, but at the same time, some pity and sadness because I didn’t take my chance,” Zheng confessed. “I would even say I ruined my chance because I feel I could do better. It took me a while to recover from that loss.”
Despite her disappointment, Zheng revealed that the defeat taught her invaluable lessons, particularly as she continues to face off against Sabalenka. Their budding rivalry, marked by five head-to-head encounters—all won by Sabalenka—has pushed Zheng to adapt and improve.
“Each time I play against her, it’s better and better,” Zheng noted. “That’s why I’m just really looking forward to the present. I don’t think any more about the past. If I just focus on the moment, I’ll be a better person and a better player.”
A Rising Star Beyond Tennis
While Zheng’s on-court ambitions remain laser-focused on breaking through for her first Grand Slam title, her influence off the court is skyrocketing. This week, Zheng was unveiled as the new global ambassador for Dior, joining tennis luminary Emma Raducanu in representing the $12.5 billion brand.
Dior’s statement was nothing short of glowing: “Qinwen Zheng embodies the elegance and boldness of Dior style, a femininity in perpetual motion.” The partnership highlights Zheng’s growing global appeal as a sporting and cultural icon.
Turning Olympic Triumph into Grand Slam Momentum
Zheng may have missed her chance in Melbourne, but 2024 wasn’t devoid of triumph. She made history at the Paris Olympics, defeating Croatia’s Donna Vekic to claim Gold and solidify her status as one of the most promising talents in tennis. Still, Zheng knows that Olympic glory doesn’t replace the prestige of a Grand Slam title.
“Winning a Grand Slam is a unique experience in itself,” Zheng remarked, reiterating her determination to capitalize on her potential and make her mark on the sport.
Can She Break Sabalenka’s Stranglehold?
Sabalenka remains a towering obstacle in Zheng’s path. The reigning Australian Open champion leads their rivalry 5-0, including crucial victories in the US Open quarterfinals and WTA Finals in 2024. But Zheng’s improving performances against the Belarusian offer hope that the gap may finally close in 2025.
Eyes on Redemption
As Zheng prepares to step back onto the Melbourne courts, the stakes couldn’t be higher. She’s not just battling for her first Grand Slam trophy—she’s aiming to rewrite the narrative of missed opportunities. Her combination of lessons learned, growing confidence, and newfound focus could make her a formidable contender this year.
Will Zheng finally conquer Sabalenka and claim the title that slipped through her fingers? Or will the ghosts of her past continue to haunt her quest for glory? One thing is certain: the world will be watching.
