Why is zheng qinwen not playing

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Zheng Qinwen is not playing in the 2024 Australian Open due to a right thigh injury that forced her to withdraw from the tournament. She sustained this injury during her quarterfinal match at the 2024 Brisbane International, where she retired while trailing 6-1, 1-1 against Elena Rybakina. As a result, she missed her scheduled first-round match against Ashlyn Krueger at the Australian Open, which was set for January 15, 2024.

Key Facts

Zheng Qinwen withdrew from the 2024 Australian Open due to a right thigh injury
She sustained the injury during her quarterfinal match at the 2024 Brisbane International on January 5, 2024
She retired from the Brisbane match while trailing 6-1, 1-1 against Elena Rybakina
Her scheduled first-round Australian Open match against Ashlyn Krueger was set for January 15, 2024
Zheng Qinwen is currently ranked 15th in the WTA singles rankings as of January 2024

Overview

Zheng Qinwen, born October 8, 2002, is a Chinese professional tennis player who has rapidly risen through the WTA rankings since turning professional in 2020. She achieved her career-high singles ranking of World No. 15 in October 2023, making her the highest-ranked Chinese player since Li Na. Zheng gained significant attention in 2022 when she reached the fourth round of the French Open as a qualifier, defeating former champion Simona Halep along the way. In 2023, she won her first WTA title at the Palermo Ladies Open and reached the quarterfinals of the US Open, establishing herself as one of the most promising young players on tour. Her powerful baseline game, particularly her forehand that averages 75 mph, has drawn comparisons to fellow Chinese star Li Na. As of January 2024, Zheng has accumulated over $3.2 million in career prize money and represents China in international competitions.

How It Works

Professional tennis players like Zheng Qinwen follow rigorous training and competition schedules that make them susceptible to various injuries. Thigh injuries, specifically to the quadriceps or hamstring muscles, typically occur during explosive movements like sprinting, sudden stops, or directional changes during matches. These injuries are graded on a scale from 1 to 3, with Grade 1 being mild muscle strain and Grade 3 representing a complete tear. Recovery time varies from 1-3 weeks for mild strains to several months for severe tears. Players undergo MRI scans to assess damage severity, followed by RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), physical therapy, and gradual return to training. The decision to withdraw from tournaments involves medical assessments by team doctors who evaluate pain levels, range of motion, and risk of re-injury. Tournament organizers then officially announce withdrawals, and players may receive ranking protection under WTA rules if injuries force extended absence.

Why It Matters

Zheng Qinwen's absence from the Australian Open significantly impacts both her career trajectory and the tournament landscape. As the highest-ranked Chinese player, her participation draws substantial viewership from China's 300 million tennis fans. Her withdrawal affects tournament revenue, particularly from Chinese broadcast rights that generate approximately $50 million annually for Grand Slam events. For Zheng personally, missing a Grand Slam means forfeiting potential ranking points and approximately $120,000 in first-round prize money. This injury setback comes at a crucial time as she aims to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she's expected to be China's top medal hope in women's tennis. Her absence also reshapes the draw, giving lower-ranked players opportunities while reducing competitive depth in the women's field.