The condition of the elbow has not worsened, making the match against Rybakina extremely challenging.

In the early hours of February 11th Beijing time, Chinese player Zheng Qinwen fought a tough three-set match in the second round of the WTA1000 Doha event, overcoming American qualifier Parks 7-6(4), 3-6, 6-2 in a hard-fought 2 hour 48 minute victory. Following her first-round comeback win against former Australian Open champion Kenin, Zheng endured back-to-back three-set battles, demonstrating strong endurance after her return. The best news is that despite the physically demanding matches, her elbow has not shown any signs of deterioration.

"Not bad," Zheng Qinwen said when asked about her elbow condition at the post-match press conference. "I feel about the same as after yesterday’s match. The elbow hasn’t gotten worse, so I think that’s good news. After playing such long matches, especially two three-set battles, it’s great that my elbow remains healthy. That makes me very happy."

For Zheng Qinwen, who has just recovered from an elbow injury, this is an encouraging sign as she prepares for a highly anticipated third-round match against the new Australian Open champion Rybakina. The two have met three times before, with Rybakina holding a slight 2-1 advantage, although Zheng won their most recent encounter at the 2024 WTA Finals.

"This is going to be a very tough match," Zheng Qinwen said looking ahead to the showdown. "She is confident now, and I am just beginning to regain my form. But I will fight for every point. Let’s see what happens in the next round."

(Text and editing by Wang Fei, photos by Visual China)