Zheng Qinwen: Riba Remains Coach, Elbow Pain Began as Early as 2024

The 2026 WTA 1000 Indian Wells tournament held its media day, where Zheng Qinwen discussed many experiences from the past two years in an interview: coexisting with injury, learning to press pause, adjusting her mindset to start anew, and also addressing the recent widespread rumors about changing coaches. As a leading figure in Chinese tennis, Qinwen has always carried significant expectations, but her determination has grown even stronger.

Zheng Qinwen training at Indian Wells. Photo: Visual China

Three weeks ago, Zheng Qinwen officially returned to competition at the WTA 1000 Doha tournament, narrowly losing in the third round to the newly crowned Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina. Reflecting on these three matches, Qinwen mentioned that her team and those around her considered her performance in her comeback event to be excellent. "But in my own view, I could have done better. During the third match (against Rybakina), I already felt my on-court concentration wasn't sufficient, and I missed many key opportunities. These moments often decide the outcome of a match. I always believe I can do a little better." The Doha tournament also revealed a positive sign: her previously operated-on elbow could withstand consecutive three-set battles. As the tour progresses, Zheng and her team will closely monitor her physical condition, continuously adjusting and refining their approach.

2024 was a glorious year for Zheng Qinwen: reaching the Australian Open final, winning the Olympic women's singles gold medal, advancing to the year-end finals, and rising to a year-end world No. 5 ranking... However, shadows lurked behind this brilliance. Zheng revealed that her elbow had occasionally caused pain as early as 2024, but at the time she didn't want to slow down or stop. She played many matches, including the Olympics, after taking painkillers. Ultimately, the accumulated injury flared up in the second half of 2025, forcing Zheng to press pause and undergo elbow surgery.

"I learned a lot during this (recovery) process, including whether it's necessary to slow down. I believe the answer is yes; I need to make some wise choices. My body gave me signals before, but I didn't listen, leading to some wrong decisions. I hope next time I can be more rational and 'smarter' when facing injury, which could actually minimize the time missed from matches and training. The longer you stay on tour, the more beneficial it is—your body and fitness gradually adapt to the competition rhythm, and you gain more experience."

Zheng Qinwen competing at the WTA Doha tournament. Photo: Visual China

Recently, Zheng Qinwen unfollowed coach Pere Riba on social media. At this Indian Wells tournament, Cypriot star Marcos Baghdatis appeared on the practice court, joining the coaching team. When asked about a potential coach change, Zheng denied it, stating that Riba remains a member of the coaching team but is absent from this event due to other commitments, and the arrangement with Baghdatis is a temporary collaboration.

One of the most talked-about stories on the WTA tour recently is the potential comeback of Serena Williams. Zheng Qinwen has mentioned that Serena has been her idol since childhood. When asked if she would like the opportunity to play against her idol, Qinwen gave a unique response: "She (Serena) truly pioneered powerful women's tennis. Since I was young, whenever asked which player's style I most want to emulate, I'd say Serena for women and Federer for men. At this stage of my career, I don't necessarily feel I must play a match against her now, as she has her own life, and deciding to return to the tour is undoubtedly a difficult and lengthy process. If I had a choice, I'd prefer to face Serena in her prime. I know that's impossible, but I've always been someone who loves a challenge. Serena at her peak had a powerful serve and excellent all-around offensive skills, so I'd really love to have played against that version of her."

After months of lengthy rehabilitation, Zheng Qinwen has achieved growth both physically and mentally, no longer stubbornly pushing through but learning to slow down and start afresh. This year is Qinwen's zodiac year (Year of the Horse); her mother prepared a red string and a small horse necklace for her. We wish this brave and fearless girl a fearless and successful 2026 season!

Interview text source: Weibo @一阵风的网球视界

(Text & Editor: Sunny)