Zheng Qinwen Keeps it Simple with 'Basic Respect' After Matches

Chinese tennis player Zheng Qinwen reveals her pragmatic approach to post-match etiquette, opting for 'basic respect' over hugs or friendly gestures.

The Australian Open's second round commences on Wednesday, featuring a star-studded lineup. Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka is set to take to the court first in Rod Laver Arena, followed closely by 10-time champion Novak Djokovic. This exciting doubleheader promises to get the day off to a thrilling start.

Wednesday's action-packed schedule also includes top seeds Alexander Zverev and Carlos Alcaraz, who will be looking to assert their dominance in the tournament. Additionally, Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen will be in action, seeking to build on her impressive recent form. With so many high-profile players competing, fans can expect an electrifying day of tennis as the second round of the Australian Open gets underway.

Gauff vs Burrage: A Battle of Resilience

Jodie Burrage's Australian Open campaign is a testament to her perseverance. The 25-year-old British player nearly quit tennis in November after a six-month hiatus due to wrist and ankle injuries, which saw her ranking plummet from a career-high 85 to 173. However, Burrage persisted and was rewarded with a first-ever victory in the Australian Open main draw, advancing to the second round and shedding “happy tears” in the process.

Burrage reflected on the emotional release she experienced after her hard-fought win: “I knew the hard work that went in for the last year. All of those emotions from the last nine months I think, yeah, were bottled up in there.” Burrage's determination and resilience have earned her a second-round matchup against third-seeded Coco Gauff.

Burrage has faced Gauff once before, losing to the American in Eastbourne in 2023. To prepare for their upcoming encounter, Burrage plans to rewatch their previous match. “Last year I didn't think I'd be playing these kinds of matches again. So I'm just going to relish the moment and see what happens,” she added.

Coco Gauff acknowledged that she doesn't remember their 2023 contest but emphasized the need for caution against Burrage. Gauff noted that Burrage will play with “nothing to lose,” making her a formidable opponent.

Draper vs Kokkinakis: A Battle of Endurance

Both Jack Draper and Thanasi Kokkinakis have already endured grueling four-hour matches in the first round of the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. Draper, who missed most of the pre-season due to a hip injury, demonstrated remarkable resilience to overcome Mariano Navone in a five-set thriller. The 23-year-old Briton “showed a lot of heart” in his hard-fought victory.

Draper is well aware that his next challenge, facing Australia's Thanasi Kokkinakis, will be no easy task. Kokkinakis will have the home crowd's support, which Draper acknowledged, saying: “Obviously, he's going to have a lot of support. I'm aware we're in Australia. He's obviously playing well.” Kokkinakis, who had to rely on painkillers to get through his first-round match, is relishing the opportunity to play on the 'People's Court' at John Cain Arena.

Kokkinakis expressed his excitement about playing in front of his home crowd, stating: “I think I've brought some of my best tennis here (in Australia). I think it's no surprise it's to do with playing at home, playing in front of friends and family with that support.” With both players having already demonstrated their endurance and determination, their second-round encounter promises to be an thrilling match.

Zheng's Pragmatic Approach to Post-Match Etiquette

Zheng Qinwen, the Chinese fifth seed, has a reputation for her straightforward approach to post-match etiquette. Known for her cold handshakes at the net, Zheng maintains that she will always extend this basic courtesy to her opponents, regardless of the match outcome. However, she draws the line at more effusive displays of affection, such as hugs.

Zheng's pragmatic approach to post-match interactions is reflected in her comments: “I feel that is not necessary for me. I come here just to play a match.” She emphasizes that her focus is solely on competing, and her behavior after a match will reflect this mindset. As she puts it: “If I lost, I will give you just basic respect and that's it. That's why you will not see me lose one match with a happy face to the opponent.” Zheng's next challenge comes in the form of Laura Siegemund in the second round.