Olympic Champion Zheng Qinwen Withdraws US Open After Elbow Surgery

Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen has withdrawn from the 2025 U.S. Open after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on her right elbow due to persistent pain that had affected her training and match performance. The 22-year-old Chinese player, ranked sixth in the world, had struggled with the injury for months and decided on surgery after consulting specialists and her team. Zheng's recent form was disrupted by the injury, leading to an early exit at Wimbledon and forcing her to take a break from competition to focus on recovery. She expressed optimism about a short hiatus and a strong comeback following rehabilitation. France's Leolia Jeanjean replaced Zheng in the U.S. Open main draw, which begins on August 24. Zheng had experienced a strong 2024 season, including an Olympic gold medal in Paris and a runner-up finish at the Australian Open, but the elbow injury has paused her momentum.