"If I lose, I will give basic respect, and that's it": Zheng Qinwen takes on post-match handshakes

World No. 5 Zheng Qinwen opened her Australian Open campaign with a victory over Romanian Anca Todoni (No. 110) by 7-6(3), 6-1. She now awaits the winner of the Laura Siegemund vs Hailey Baptiste match.

The 2024 finalist was the first player to take to Rod Laver Arena this year, delivering a high-level performance. While she dominated much of the first set, she faced challenges after wasting several set points at 5-4, 40-0, allowing Todoni to stay in contention. However, Zheng secured the tiebreak and maintained her level to seal the victory in the second set.

Read also

Australian Open 2025: Nerves tested as Zheng Qinwen triumphs over spirited Anca Todoni

During the post-match press conference, Zheng was asked for her views on post-match handshakes. "I always give a handshake to my opponent," said the world No. 5. "I feel that's basic respect. It doesn't matter if I win or lose; I will give a handshake."

"But not always with a smiling face — I know myself. And I don't often hug my opponent because I feel that's unnecessary. I come here just to play a match. If I lose, I will give basic respect, and that's it," the 2024 Australian Open runner-up added.

"That's why you wouldn't see me lose a match and then have a happy face towards my opponent. If you did, that would be strange and would mean I didn't care about that match on that day."

Read also

"My number one goal would be to claim the top 10": Mirra Andreeva set sights on 2025 season

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate tennis experience—subscribe today for exclusive access to top stories.

Subscribe