Zheng Qinwen Miami Open Pre-match Interview: Elbow Condition Improves, Hoping Dual-Coach Setup Brings New Experience

Chinese tennis star Zheng Qinwen is about to embark on her third tournament since her comeback at the Miami Open. Reviewing the previous two events, she first reached the quarter-finals in Doha, showing signs of recovery, but then unexpectedly exited in the second round at Indian Wells. Before the Miami Open, Zheng Qinwen discussed recent adjustments to her coaching team, progress in her elbow recovery, and expressed her desire to display better competitive form.

Two weeks ago at Indian Wells, former Australian Open finalist Baghdatis accompanied Zheng Qinwen for the first time as a coach, while Riba was absent for this tournament. Addressing attention around the coaching team changes, Zheng Qinwen stated in an interview at Indian Wells that Riba was only taking a temporary break. As expected, upon arriving in Miami, Riba rejoined the team, forming a "dual-coach setup" together with Baghdatis.

Regarding the coaching team changes and arrangements, Zheng Qinwen said: "I've always wanted to try technical changes to reach a higher level. I hope their collaboration can bring me new experiences. It's still in the trial phase, and it certainly isn't easy at the start, but I believe it will work out well. Currently, I really enjoy working with both of them." On the specific division of coaching roles, she revealed that Baghdatis is currently the primary coach, and adjustments might be made in the future.

Regarding the elbow issue that many are concerned about, Zheng Qinwen shared positive news, stating that compared to Indian Wells, her elbow condition has improved significantly: "Only time can gradually resolve the injury. Compared to Indian Wells, my elbow feels much better now, especially with day-to-day training. It's slowly improving during each tournament, which is what I'm happiest about. With a healthy body, I can perform my tennis."

She further explained that her elbow recovery still needs to be tested through many matches: "Actually, during the Middle East season, I was a little worried, but now it seems okay. I still need more matches to test myself. After all, at Indian Wells I exited very early and couldn't play into the fourth or fifth round to check the elbow's condition. So, I really hope to advance to deeper rounds this time and see how my body responds."

Discussing plans after the Miami Open for the clay season, Zheng Qinwen indicated they are largely similar to last year: "Mainly focusing on the 500s, 1000s, and Grand Slams. Next, I'm considering playing Stuttgart, Madrid, Rome, and the French Open. Compared to last year, Charleston has been excluded."

At this Miami Open, Zheng Qinwen is seeded 23rd and enjoys a first-round bye. Her second-round opponent will be either Stephens or Brady, both strong local players. She has previously won both matches against Stephens and has no record against Brady. Looking ahead to this matchup, she stated that the key to winning lies in her own performance.

"Regardless of who I face, it's a positive challenge. I want to bring out my best tennis. The most important thing isn't who the opponent is, but how much of my own tennis I can actually deliver. I didn't play well last tournament, and I hope to do better this time. After the last loss, I reflected and realized I hadn't yet entered the match state, including the passion, intensity, and energy release needed for competition. In a two-set match, maintaining high-intensity focus is crucial, something I've somewhat lost after six months without playing. I hope this time I can gradually regain my fullest tennis form."

(Interview source: Youku Sports, Editor: Wang Fei, Image: Visual China)