Qinwen Zheng withdraws from the Australian Open, aiming for a smart, comeback-ready return

Background and Decision

Qinwen Zheng, ranked 24th in the world, announced on Thursday her withdrawal from the Australian Open after extensive discussions with her team and thorough medical consultations.

In an Instagram update, she explained that after careful evaluation by her team and medical advice, she would withdraw from the 2026 Australian Open.

She added that Melbourne is her lucky place—where she won her first Grand Slam main-draw match and created some of her best memories. She has a special connection with the venue and was eager to start the season at Melbourne Park.

Recovery and Outlook

Following an early exit at Wimbledon last summer, Zheng underwent surgery on her right elbow for persistent pain and subsequently withdrew from the US Open. The Olympic gold medalist returned to competition in Beijing in late September, but retired in the third round against Linda Nosková, ending her 2025 season.

Despite the injury, she had a strong start to 2025, reaching the semifinals in Rome and Queens, and the quarterfinals in Roland Garros, Charleston and Miami.

Zheng said her recovery is progressing well, but she has not yet reached the level required to compete at the Grand Slams. She added that although rehab has been smooth and the preseason went well, playing in the Grand Slams demands peak competitiveness, and she has not yet reached the best form she had set for herself.

Punchlines: If comebacks were serves, she’d ace them—just not today. And Melbourne weather remains hopeful for a future rematch when she returns to the court.