Chinese tennis sensation Zheng Qinwen powered into the third round of the WTA Italian Open on Friday, claiming her first clay-court victory of the season with a commanding win over Serbia’s Olga Danilovic.
The eighth-seeded Zheng showcased her dominance from the outset, overwhelming Danilovic 6-1, 6-4 in a 90-minute match. Having received a first-round bye, Zheng faced Danilovic, whom she had previously defeated in straight sets at the 2023 United Cup.
In their first encounter on clay, Zheng raced to a 5-0 lead in the opening set. Facing four break points in a tense seventh game, she held her nerve and sealed the set 6-1 with an ace.
The second set was more competitive, with both players exchanging early breaks. Zheng broke ahead to lead 3-2 and maintained her edge, ultimately closing out the set 6-4. The victory marks an important milestone as she secures her first win on clay this season.
“Before going on court, I told myself I needed to be more consistent,” Zheng reflected after the match. “In my last match in Madrid, I had too many unforced errors, so today, my goal was to stay steady first, then look for chances to attack. I feel like I stuck to my game plan well.”
Looking ahead to the remainder of the tournament at the Foro Italico and the upcoming French Open, Zheng emphasized the importance of mental composure. “When my emotions get too restless, it affects my performance on court,” she noted. “Now my goal is to quiet my mind and take it one match at a time.”
Zheng’s advancement sets an exciting tone for her clay-court season as she continues to rise in the ranks of women’s tennis.
