Tennis fans are looking forward to the 2024 Australian Open finals, which will pit Qinwen Zheng against Aryna Sabalenka. Amidst the anticipation, Zheng’s recent comments about destiny and superstitions have added an intriguing layer to the upcoming showdown.
Reflecting on her path to the finals, Zheng recognized the significance of fate in her tennis career. Alluding to the significance of the tenth anniversary of Li Na‘s victory and her reunion with her coach, she said,
I believe on the destiny. Yes, I do.
However, she emphasized her commitment not to let other forces, such as fate, influence her thinking. When everything goes well, she believes in destiny. But if destiny doesn’t go on her side, she doesn’t believe in it at all, she remarked.
In addition to her beliefs about destiny, Zheng hinted at her team’s superstitions and pre-match routines, describing them as “crazy” and “obsessive.” While she chose not to divulge specific details, she acknowledged the significance of routines within her team.
I have specific routine. It's just you guys never see. Actually, our team a little bit obsessed with the routines, but I don't want to tell more about the details because sounds too much crazy. (Laughter.)
Qinwen Zheng secures a position in the final with an easy win
Dayana Yastremska took an early lead, capitalizing on Zheng’s flaws to take a 2-0 lead with her powerful backhand on second serves. However, her dominance was challenged in the third game, which featured an incredible turnaround. Despite coming back from 0-40 down and holding a point to increase her lead to 3-0, Yastremska’s game unraveled with four consecutive double faults.
In contrast, Zheng’s performance improved significantly, demonstrating exceptional consistency. As the match went, she increased her first-serve percentage from 53% to 59% between sets, dictating play with a clever combination of powerful topspin forehands and expert court positioning, particularly in lengthy rallies.
Despite suffering physical hurdles, including a mid-match medical stoppage due to evident mobility concerns, Yastremska persevered in her efforts to create a comeback during the second set. However, Zheng soon regained momentum, scoring 12 of the next 13 points to lead 5-3 and ultimately win.
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