Zheng Qinwen Finds Redemption and Momentum at Indian Wells

Zheng Qinwen Finds Joy in Indian Wells After Back-to-Back Wins

Zheng Qinwen, the Chinese No. 1, finally found her footing at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, a tournament she calls "Tennis Paradise." After two straight wins, including victories over rivals she had never beaten before, Zheng advanced to the last 16 for the first time.

"I am just happy to win the match today, because it's my first time to go this far in Indian Wells," said Zheng. "This will make me love coming to the Tennis Paradise more."

Zheng's 6-4, 7-5 victory over Lulu Sun, whose mother is from China, avenged an upset loss to the qualifier at Wimbledon last year. It also marked Zheng's first back-to-back wins this season, following her victory over two-time major champion Victoria Azarenka in the tournament opener.

Cheered on by a group of local Chinese fans, Zheng overcame a fightback by Sun to kickstart her winning momentum again after a disappointing start to the year. She attributed her success to staying consistent throughout the match, a key factor in her successful 2024 campaign.

"She is really a good player, and if I hit short balls, she always gets them back," said Zheng. "She has strong forehand strikes, so it was not an easy match."

Zheng's fire of revenge, stemming from past losses, served as a strong push rather than a mental burden. "If I have to be honest, no, I don't forgive," she said. "I even remember the match I lost three years ago against (Angelique) Kerber (at Indian Wells), I was leading 4-1. So it's tough for me to lose. I remember, and I try to fight back. I think that's one of my strong points. That's why I try to be better, and here I am."

"No doubt, a Grand Slam."

"This was the dream since I was a child," she said. "I didn't put world No. 1 in my dream, I put the Slams (on top of the list).