Zheng Shocks Swiatek to Advance in US Open, as Zverev and Rybakina Progress
Zheng Qinwen pulls off a remarkable comeback, reaching the quarter-finals alongside top seeds Zverev and Rybakina.
The Full Story
In a stunning upset, Zheng Qinwen defeated Iga Swiatek to advance to the quarter-finals of the US Open on September 8, 2026. The match showcased Zheng's resilience, coming back from a 5-0 deficit in the first set to rally and win. Zheng, a former world number four, is currently ranked 121st after enduring a tough recovery from elbow surgery.
Earlier in the tournament, she saved a match point against Madison Keys, showcasing her determination. Against Swiatek, the six-time Grand Slam champion, Zheng impressed by winning seven straight games after initially falling behind. "I just focus on point by point," Zheng noted, reflecting on the challenges she faced adjusting to the large atmosphere of Arthur Ashe Stadium.
With this victory, Zheng becomes the first qualifier to defeat Swiatek at a major tournament, having also beaten her in the gold medal match at the Paris Olympics two years ago. Zheng will next face world number two Elena Rybakina, who cruised past Naomi Osaka to secure her place in the quarter-finals. Rybakina, who is chasing her third Grand Slam title, is also in contention for the number one ranking, depending on the tournament's outcomes.
In other matches, fourth-seeded Coco Gauff progressed after defeating 18-year-old Iva Jovic, while Alexander Zverev maintained his form against Luciano Darderi, confirming his progression to the last eight. Zverev will play Botic van de Zandschulp, who saved a match point to clinch his quarter-final berth in a grueling five-hour encounter. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Alexander Blockx reached the quarter-finals, becoming the first Belgian man to do so at the US Open, setting up a clash with Karen Khachanov.
The tournament continues to showcase thrilling gameplay and unexpected outcomes as players vie for one of tennis's most prestigious titles, with all eyes now on the upcoming quarter-final matchups that promise intense competition and drama on the court. Zheng and the other competitors represent not just their skill but the broader narrative of perseverance and unexpected triumphs in sport, proving that anything can happen in the grand arena of the US Open. With several players positioned for potential title shots, the tournament is heating up as it heads towards its climax, offering fans a thrilling spectacle as they await the next round of high-stakes matches at Flushing Meadows, New York.
Hope is also high for Blockx and Zverev as they continue to display skill and tenacity that could lead them further in the tournament. Fans are eager to see how these narratives will unfold in the days ahead as the anticipation builds for explosive matchups ahead. This US Open is shaping up to be a memorable event, full of surprises and astonishing comebacks that captivate the tennis community and sports fans worldwide. Zheng's remarkable display of skill serves as an inspiration, setting the stage for future generations of players in pursuit of tennis greatness and proving the unpredictable nature of sport, where each match can redefine legacies and expectations.
Why It Matters
Zheng's victory over Swiatek marks a notable upset in women's tennis, highlighting the unpredictability of major tournaments. This win boosts Zheng's profile and showcases the competitive nature of the sport, inspiring young athletes worldwide.
What's Next
Zheng is set to clash with Elena Rybakina in the quarter-finals, while Zverev faces Botic van de Zandschulp. Excitement builds as these matchups promise thrilling tennis action and potential new champions at the US Open as the tournament progresses further.