Zheng Qinwen takes Maria Sharapova approach in WTA ‘friends’ admission
Zheng Qinwen has revealed she prefers to “keep her distance” from fellow WTA players, in an approach similar to that of former world No 1 Maria Sharapova.
World No 7 Qinwen has soared up the WTA Rankings in 2024 and has become one of the most talked about players in the women’s game.
She made history by becoming the first Chinese player to win a singles gold medal at the Olympic Games, alongside reaching the Australian Open final and winning two further WTA titles.
However, the 22-year-old has attracted criticism from other WTA players.
She was described as “cut-throat” by Emma Navarro after beating the American at the Olympics, while Donna Vekic implied a similar sentiment after playing her in the Olympic final.
Asked about her relationship with other players ahead of her WTA Finals debut, the Chinese claimed she did not “feel like” she could form friendships on tour.
“My answer is very clear, I always prefer to keep my distance from other players,” she said.
“There is a lot of competition between us. I am a very sensitive girl. I don’t feel like I can become friends with someone and then have to compete on the court, I wouldn’t focus 100% to fight.
“As soon as I encourage myself, I would feel weird. Deep down, if it’s a friend, I want her to win and succeed in life. It’s the opposite of what I think in a tennis tournament.
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“Once I understood that, I decided not to try to make friends on the tour. There are so many people outside the WTA, why should I make friends here?
“I come here to compete with them, to win the match. That’s my opinion.”
Qinwen’s comments have drawn comparisons to Sharapova, not only a former world No 1, but a five-time Grand Slam champion – and the last woman to complete the Career Grand Slam.
The Russian famously kept her distance from most of the WTA Tour during her career, particularly key rivals such as Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka.
“I think everyone knows this is my job here,” commented Sharapova in 2013.
“When I’m on the courts or when I’m on the court playing, I’m a competitor and I want to beat every single person whether they’re in the locker room or across the net.”
Qinwen’s opening match on her WTA Finals ended in defeat, with the seventh seed beaten 6-3, 6-4 by top seed and title favourite Aryna Sabalenka.
However, she will be back on court on Monday, facing fifth seed Elena Rybakina.
It may prove to be a must-win contest for both women, with Rybakina having been beaten by Jasmine Paolini in her opener.
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