Zheng Qinwen's Victory in Challenging Weather

The much-anticipated 2025 Australian Open kicked off with electrifying matches despite tumultuous weather, as last year’s finalist, Zheng Qinwen, outlasted a formidable challenge from rising star Anca Todoni. Playing under the newly deployed retractable roof of Rod Laver Arena, the No. 5 seed from China triumphed over the Romanian qualifier with a score of 7-6(3), 6-1 in their opening-round encounter.

This match marked Zheng's first competitive appearance since finishing as a runner-up to Coco Gauff at the WTA Finals in Riyadh last year. The 22-year-old took a total of 1 hour and 56 minutes to dispatch the 20-year-old Todoni, who is rapidly climbing the ranks and currently sits at No. 110. In a gripping first set, Zheng had to fend off three set points before eventually clinching the set in a tiebreak, demonstrating her ability to perform under pressure.

“It was a tough match today,” Zheng admitted after her hard-fought victory. “Todoni played really well. I’m just happy to advance in the tournament, especially since I wasn’t at my best.”

The weather mirrored the intensity of the match, with thunder rumbling through the arena as play began. In the first set, both players showcased their powerful strikes, compelling each other to dig deep. Zheng initially took a lead of 5-3 powered by her exceptional first serve. However, Todoni used her impressive shot depth to break back, forcing Zheng into a tiebreak where her experience shone through.

In the second set, Todoni’s aggressive style continued to pose challenges, with the Romanian even having an early break point. However, Zheng reclaimed control, ultimately converting her first match point with her eighth ace of the day, an impressive feat considering she led the tournament in aces the previous year.

“Honestly, I felt quite nervous before the match,” Zheng reflected. “It’s the Australian Open, one of the biggest tournaments, and I have a special connection to it. Yet, when I’m nervous, I tend to focus better and make fewer mistakes.”

Mirra Andreeva's Impressive Performance

Earlier in the day, fellow competitor Mirra Andreeva, the No. 14 seed, emerged as one of the tournament’s early standout players. At just 17 years old, she comfortably defeated former Wimbledon quarterfinalist Marie Bouzkova, winning 6-3, 6-3 in a match that lasted 1 hour and 36 minutes. Andreeva, the youngest player in the world’s top 20, displayed remarkable skill, hitting 27 winners compared to Bouzkova’s 11, while also dominating second-serve points.

“I’ve been working hard on my game and it shows,” Andreeva commented during her post-match conference. “I’m now stepping up to finish points at the net and I’m not afraid to be aggressive.”

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, Zheng will face either Laura Siegemund from Germany or Hailey Baptiste from the United States in the second round, while Andreeva’s next opponent will be either 2023 semifinalist Magda Linette or Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima.

As the tournament progresses, tennis fans are eager to see how these rising stars will navigate the challenges of the Australian Open and whether they can make their mark on this prestigious event.