Zheng Qinwen wins at US Open Qualifying

In the early hours of August 25 Beijing time, the first round of the 2026 US Open women's singles qualifying featured an all-Chinese clash. The 14th seed in qualifying, Zheng Qinwen, defeated compatriot You Xiaodi 6-3, 6-2, claiming her first win at a Grand Slam in 14 months and 450 days, and ending her recent run of three consecutive singles losses.

After losing in the first round of qualifying at the Toronto event, Zheng Qinwen chose to withdraw from Cincinnati, instead dedicating herself to 20 days of intensive training in preparation for the US Open qualifying. This is her first appearance in Grand Slam qualifying since the 2022 Australian Open. Zheng's first opponent in qualifying was her old teammate from the Hubei team, You Xiaodi; the two were doubles partners at the 2021 National Games, where they won bronze, and in 2024 they also represented China together at the United Cup.

Facing a familiar teammate and opponent, Zheng Qinwen played steadily throughout the match, controlling the pace with powerful serves and baseline attacks. She fired 7 aces in total, had a first serve winning percentage of 90%, and did not allow any break point chances for her opponent. Ultimately, Zheng won the match 6-3, 6-2 in straight sets, successfully taking the first step toward reaching the US Open main draw.