Daijiworld Media Network - Doha

Doha, Feb 10: Olympic gold medallist Zheng Qinwen marked a strong comeback to competitive tennis with a hard-fought three-set victory over Sofia Kenin at the Qatar Open on Monday, while fifth seed Mirra Andreeva progressed comfortably into the round of 16.

Playing her first match since September last year, Zheng overcame the 2020 Australian Open champion Kenin 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 in the opening round. The Chinese star, currently ranked 26th in the world, served a statement performance by firing 20 aces in her season opener. She will next face Alycia Parks in the second round.

Reflecting on her return after injury, Zheng said it was not entirely pain-free but expressed confidence in her recovery. “When you come back from injury, it’s never totally pain-free. But generally I believe my elbow is in a good process. I’m in a really good stage and can keep going for another two hours serving,” she said.

Meanwhile, Andreeva began her campaign with a 7-6 (7-0), 6-1 win over Magda Linette, having received a bye in the round of 64. The young Russian looked composed as she eased past her opponent to book her place in the last 16.

The day, however, saw several high-profile exits. Third seed Amanda Anisimova retired while trailing Karolina Pliskova in the third set, while former US Open champion Emma Raducanu was also forced to retire during the deciding set of her match against Camila Osorio.

Action continues on Tuesday with top two seeds Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina set to play their opening round-of-32 matches. Fourth seed Coco Gauff will also begin her singles campaign after an early exit from the doubles event on Monday alongside rising star Victoria Mboko.