Zheng defeats Vekic in US Open with longest-running women’s match ever, repeating win from Olympics

Zheng Qinwen secured her spot in the U.S. Open quarterfinals by defeating Donna Vekic in a rematch of their Olympic final. The match ended in a 7-6 (2), 4-6, 6-2 victory in the early hours of Monday morning, making it the latest finish for a women’s match in the tournament’s history. Despite the tough competition, Zheng proved her resilience in the nearly three-hour-long match, a stark contrast to her previous encounter with Vekic in Paris.

Having clinched China’s first singles gold in tennis at the Olympics, Zheng faced a formidable opponent in Vekic on the hard courts of the U.S. Open. Although Vekic is more accustomed to clay courts, Zheng’s prowess on hard courts was evident as she navigated her way through the challenging match. With a Grand Slam final appearance at this year’s Australian Open under her belt, Zheng showcased her determination and adaptability in transitioning between different surfaces.

Looking ahead, Zheng is set to face Aryna Sabalenka, the No. 2 seed, in the upcoming quarterfinal matchup. Despite the late-night victory, Zheng expressed confidence in her readiness for the next challenge, emphasizing the importance of adequate rest and preparation. Her positive mindset and eagerness to compete against formidable opponents like Sabalenka reflect her strong competitive spirit and dedication to her craft.

On the other side, Vekic, the No. 24 seed, faced disappointment after missing an opportunity to advance further in the tournament following her impressive performance at Wimbledon. Despite showcasing her skills with powerful returns and strategic plays, Vekic fell short against Zheng in a hard-fought battle that saw momentum shifts and tense exchanges on the court.

The late-night thriller between Zheng and Vekic surpassed previous records for the latest finish of a women’s match at the U.S. Open, underscoring the determination and resilience displayed by both players. Despite the challenges posed by the late hour, the athletes captivated the audience with their skill and sportsmanship, setting the stage for more exciting matchups in the remainder of the tournament.