Zheng Qinwen, gold medalist in women's singles at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, secured a victory at her 2024 Wuhan Open debut on Oct 9 as the event continued with the second round of the women's singles competition.

With over 10,000 spectators cheering her on, Zheng defeated Romanian player Jaqueline Adina Cristian 6-2 and 6-4, marking a strong start to her competition.

Zheng Qinwen wins her Wuhan Open debut. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

"I'm so thrilled. Zheng Qinwen is not just Hubei's pride but also China's pride. I hope she goes even further in the Wuhan Open!" A spectator surnamed Wang, who works in the Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (Optics Valley of China or OVC), was deeply impressed by the match.

After her victory, Zheng thanked the enthusiastic crowd, saying, "I am very happy to secure my first win at the Wuhan Open this year. Thank you to all my friends cheering for me in the arena!"

Zheng Qinwen wins her Wuhan Open debut. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

In the next round, Zheng will face either Leylah Fernandez or Kamilla Rakhimova.

In the completed women's singles matches, Grand Slam champion and top seed player Aryna Sabalenka defeated Czech player Katerina Siniakova. In the post-match news conference, Sabalenka expressed her desire to face Zheng in the final and hoped for a great match.