The tennis world has been buzzing with coaching split-ups in recent months, with Novak Djokovic and Goran Ivanisevic, as well as Qinwen Zheng and Wim Fissette, parting ways after successful partnerships. The drama escalated when Fissette abruptly ended his coaching relationship with Zheng to join Naomi Osaka’s team, leaving the Chinese star feeling betrayed and hurt.
Despite the initial shock and disappointment, Zheng faced Osaka at the Italian Open with a newfound sense of calmness. She dominated the match, defeating Osaka in straight sets and advancing to the next round. While the fire of betrayal may have dimmed, Zheng’s competitive spirit was evident on the court.
In a surprising turn of events, Zheng had words of praise for Osaka after the match. She commended the Japanese star for her comeback after becoming a mother, acknowledging the challenges faced by female athletes returning to the sport post-pregnancy. This display of sportsmanship and respect highlighted Zheng’s maturity and grace in the face of adversity.
As Osaka continues to impress with her performances post-comeback, Zheng remains focused on her own journey. Despite not yet securing a title after her return, Osaka’s resilience and determination have earned her admiration from fans and fellow players alike. With a tough match against Coco Gauff on the horizon, Zheng is determined to make her mark at the Italian Open and showcase her competitive spirit on the court.