In an emotionally charged match at the Indian Wells tennis tournament, top seed Zheng Qinwen confronted a disruptive spectator with a chilling stare that quickly caught the attention of the global tennis community. The incident occurred during the Chinese player’s first match against Victoria Azarenka, following an initial bye in the first round. The 22-year-old, who holds a gold medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics, had just won the first set 6-3 and was ahead in the early stages of the second when the disturbance took place.
In the middle of the fourth game, with the score at deuce and Zheng leading 2-1, the young athlete was preparing to serve when an untimely shout from the crowd forced her to halt mid-motion. Unfazed, Zheng responded with a steely glare in the direction of the interrupter, a moment that the commentator aptly termed as “an evil stare”. In solidarity, chair umpire Marija Cicak mirrored Zheng’s reaction, both sending a clear message of disapproval to the offender.
The interruption, however, seemed to impact Zheng’s game. She lost that fourth game, and while she had another break soon after, she also conceded one. Notwithstanding, the No. 8 seeded player rebounded admirably, snatching up another break in the ninth game against Azarenka and serving out the match in the game that followed.
Despite having been bested by Azarenka in their previous two encounters, Zheng’s victory marked her first triumph over the seasoned player and her first advance to the third round of Indian Wells, after three appearances at the tournament. Reflecting on her achievement, the young champion expressed her joy and gratitude.
“It’s not easy,” she confessed, reflecting on her journey. “I came to Indian Wells three times but it’s my first time in the third round. Also, my first time beating Azarenka. Such a great player. I’m really happy tonight.”
She also added, “It’s really tough to face her. She beat me twice when I was 19 and 21 years old. Just really happy to get this match. Thanks for all the crowd who came to support tonight.”
In her next match, Zheng will face off against Lulu Sun in the third round of the Indian Wells tournament. The anticipation for this match is high, as fans eagerly wait to see if Zheng will continue her winning streak at Indian Wells.