OLYMPIC champion Zheng Qinwen has withdrawn from the US Open as she recovers from right elbow surgery, tournament organizers announced on Monday.
The world number six revealed last week on Instagram that she has been struggling with “persistent pain” in her right elbow, which affected her performance during both training and matches.
After exploring various treatments with little success, Zheng decided to undergo arthroscopic surgery following consultations with elbow specialists and her support team.
She has since announced she will be taking a short break from competition to focus on her recovery.
With Zheng’s withdrawal, France’s Leolia Jeanjean will move into the main draw of the US Open, the final Grand Slam of the season, which begins with main draw action on Aug. 24 in New York.
VENUS WILLIAMS
Venus Williams enjoyed a winning return to tennis after more than a year away from the game as the 45-year-old American teamed up with compatriot Hailey Baptiste to win their round of 16 women’s doubles tie at the Washington Open on Monday.
The seven-times Grand Slam singles champion had not played a competitive match in 16 months, with her last appearance on the WTA Tour coming at the Miami Open in March last year.
Williams and Baptiste beat Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie Ngounoue 6-3, 6-1 to reach the quarterfinals in Washington, and the former world number one said if felt “inspiring” to be back on court. — Reuters
