Zheng Qinwen Upset by Laura Siegemund at Australian Open

Zheng Qinwen, last year's Australian Open runner-up, suffered a surprising defeat in the second round, losing to German veteran Laura Siegemund in straight sets, 7-6 (7-3) 6-3. Despite being the fifth seed and coming off a strong season, Zheng struggled to find her rhythm against the unseeded Siegemund, who was playing in her 27th Grand Slam. Siegemund, the oldest player remaining in the women's draw, executed a tactical match, earning her first victory over a top-10 player since 2022. The defeat marks a significant upset in the tournament, as Zheng aimed to replicate her compatriot Li Na's 2014 championship win in Australia. Top seed Aryna Sabalenka also advanced, overcoming a second-set scare against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. The match showcased Siegemund's determination, as she played without the pressure of expectations and delivered a commendable performance against a favored opponent.