As of January 7, 2025, there are no new developments directly related to the US Open tennis tournament. However, here are some recent news stories from
the tennis world:
Zheng Qinwen Aims for Australian Open Success
Chinese tennis player Zheng Qinwen is striving to emulate compatriot Li Na’s success at the Australian Open. Currently ranked fifth globally, Zheng reached the Australian Open final last year but was defeated by Aryna Sabalenka. She has had a successful season, including winning an Olympic gold medal in Paris. Zheng’s background and playing style draw comparisons with Li Na, as both hail from Hubei province and trained under coach Carlos Rodriguez. Her main hurdle remains Sabalenka, who has a strong record against her. Zheng is determined to return stronger to Melbourne Park and is focused on overcoming her formidable opponent.
REUTERS
Jack Draper Prepares for Australian Open
British tennis player Jack Draper heads to the 2025 Australian Open as the 15th seed, aiming to build on his impressive performance in 2024, where he reached the semi-finals of the US Open. Despite concerns about a hip injury, Draper has been training in Melbourne and is set to compete in the first Grand Slam of the year. The Australian Open draw will be announced on January 9, and the tournament will run from January 12 to 26. Draper, currently ranked 15th in the world, is the highest-ranked British player ahead of Cameron Norrie. Coverage of the event will be available on Eurosport and discovery+, with additional updates on talkSPORT. Draper remains optimistic despite his injury challenges, focusing on strengthening his hip to handle the demanding schedule.
TALKSPORT
Conor Niland Reflects on Tennis Career
Conor Niland, an Irish former professional tennis player who once defeated Roger Federer during his junior years, has shared insights into his career. Despite practicing with elite players like Serena Williams and Andy Murray and competing against Novak Djokovic at the US Open, Niland’s journey was marked by lonely matches, often in front of no audiences. His prominent moment came in 2011 when he qualified for Wimbledon but missed a special reunion with Federer. Post-tennis, Niland transitioned into commercial property, working for Cushman & Wakefield. Reflecting on his nearly moments and demanding career, he’s penned an autobiography, ‘The Racket,’ sharing his unique and humorous perspective on the life of a journeyman tennis player. His story underscores the physical and emotional challenges of life outside the sport’s limelight.
