China’s rising tennis star Zheng Qinwen faced a surprising defeat at the WTA 1000 Dubai Tennis Championships on Wednesday. Despite a strong start, Zheng was overpowered by American Peyton Stearns in a dramatic three-set match.
The match, initially set for Tuesday but delayed due to weather, saw Zheng take the first set 6-3 with impressive play. However, Stearns mounted a formidable comeback, winning the next two sets 6-4, 6-4, to clinch the victory.
This loss marks Zheng’s third consecutive second-round exit this season, following earlier departures from the Australian Open and the Doha event. The setback may affect her world ranking, placing her position within the top eight at risk.
Looking ahead, Zheng is preparing to compete in the Sunshine Double tournaments in North America, where she’ll aim to regain her momentum on the court.
