Sun Jan 12 23:49:20 UTC 2025: **Stormy Start Doesn’t Stop Zheng Qinwen at Australian Open**
Melbourne, Australia – Despite a stormy start to the 2025 Australian Open and a tough challenge from qualifier Anca Todoni, No. 5 seed Zheng Qinwen advanced to the second round on Sunday. Playing under a closed roof at Rod Laver Arena, Zheng defeated Todoni 7-6(3), 6-1 in a match lasting 1 hour and 56 minutes.
The first set was a thrilling battle, with Todoni matching Zheng’s power and forcing the Chinese player to save three set points before eventually winning a tense tiebreak. Zheng acknowledged the difficulty of the match, stating she “wasn’t playing her best tennis” but was happy to secure the victory.
Elsewhere, 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva, the youngest player in the Top 20, easily defeated Marie Bouzkova 6-3, 6-3, showcasing her aggressive playing style and securing the first victory of the tournament. Andreeva highlighted improvements in her game, specifically her willingness to attack the net.
The tournament also saw the continued success of Coco Gauff, who carried her momentum from a dominant performance at the United Cup, where she beat World No. 2 Iga Swiatek. While the specifics of her improved game were not detailed, her undefeated week suggests continued strength going into the Australian Open.
Zheng will next face either Laura Siegemund or Hailey Baptiste, while Andreeva will play either Magda Linette or Moyuka Uchijima. The Australian Open continues with more exciting matches to come.
First Piper 