Qinwen Zheng’s 2024 season will be remembered as a year of breakthrough performances and incredible achievements. One of her most notable moments came at the prestigious WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where she faced off against American Coco Gauff in an electrifying final. Despite a valiant effort, the 22-year-old fell short in a dramatic three-set battle, with Gauff coming from a 5-3 deficit in the final set to claim a 3-6 6-4 7-6(2) victory. The match, lasting just over three hours, marked Gauff’s maiden WTA Finals title and her third tournament win of 2024. For Zheng, the runner-up finish in her debut at the event was an extraordinary achievement that solidified her place among the game’s elite players.
As noted by Beijing-based tennis commentator Chen Chi, “Reaching the final and finishing as runner-up is already an incredible achievement,” adding that Zheng’s continued success in 2025 could bring even greater recognition to Chinese tennis.
Zheng’s 2024 season has been nothing short of spectacular, with a string of remarkable performances that have earned her a spot among the top players in women’s tennis. It was a year that saw her break new ground, reaching her first major Grand Slam final at the Australian Open, where she was defeated by Aryna Sabalenka. She also made her mark at the WTA 1000 events, reaching the final in Wuhan, and capturing the gold medal at the Olympic Games, a historic first for China in tennis singles.
The Chinese player’s other title runs included defending her Palermo Ladies Open crown, triumphing at the Japan Open, and clinching victory at the Pan Pacific Open. These successes propelled her to the WTA Finals, where she continued her impressive form, ultimately earning a runner-up finish. With a year-end win-loss record of 52-18, Zheng’s rise has been a testament to her talent, determination, and brilliant partnership with her coach, Riba, who rejoined her team ahead of the 2024 season after a previous stint from 2012 to mid-2023.
Beyond her victories, Zheng’s consistency and ability to challenge the very best in the game have made her one of the most exciting young players on the WTA Tour. Her run to the WTA Finals final made her the youngest player to reach the tournament’s final on debut since Petra Kvitova in 2011, and her Top 5 ranking to start 2025 is a testament to the immense potential still ahead. As she continues to grow and develop, the future looks incredibly bright for the Chinese tennis star.
Main Photo Credit: Andrew P. Scott-USA TODAY Sports
