Zheng Qinwen to take “short break” following elbow surgery

Zheng Qinwen revealed she had successfully undergone surgery to treat a persistent elbow injury, the reigning Olympic champion sharing the news on social media Saturday.

“I want to share a quick update with you all,” wrote Zheng, the current WTA world No. 6. “Over the past months, I’ve been dealing with persistent pain in my right elbow during training and matches. Despite trying various treatments to manage it, the discomfort never fully went away.

“After consulting with elbow specialists and discussing thoroughly with my team, we decided that arthroscopic surgery was the best option to fully resolve the issue. Yesterday, I underwent the procedure successfully, and I’m grateful to have it behind me.”

Zheng had delayed her start to the 2025 season due to an unspecified injury, ultimately exiting in the second round of the Australian Open to Laura Siegemund. Though she posted improved results during the clay-court season, reaching the semifinals at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia followed by the Roland Garros quarterfinals, she lost in the first round of Wimbledon for a third straight year, suffering a three-set defeat to Katerina Sinikova.

The 22-year-old has specified no timetable for her return to tennis, and has not definitively shut down her season.

“Now begins the recovery journey. Over the next few weeks and months, I’ll be focusing entirely on rehab—doing everything I can to come back stronger and healthier.

“This is just a short break, and I see it as a necessary step toward a better version of myself on court. Thank you all for your continued support and encouragement. I can’t wait to be back—see you soon!”