Wang Xinyu: Winter training laid the foundation for a strong start to the year; regrets over Zheng Qinwen's withdrawal

On January 17th Beijing time, Wang Xinyu gave a pre-Australian Open interview. She reached the final again at the Auckland tournament at the start of the year, earning the singles runner-up title and setting a very strong tone for the new season, with her world ranking returning to the top 50. Wang is competing in both singles and doubles at this Australian Open; her first-round singles opponent is qualifier Karenina, and she continues to partner with compatriot Zheng Saisai in doubles.

Regarding her current form, Wang Xinyu said the winter training was effective and laid a solid foundation for the new season. She stated, “Starting a new season in very good shape is quite rare. In the past two years, I had to spend time during winter training managing injuries and recovery. The winter training at the end of last year was relatively satisfactory, with enough time and both the content and quality meeting my expectations.”

She mentioned that the WTCC exhibition match she played at the end of the year also served as a good warm-up for the new season: “Actually, playing the exhibition in Shenzhen was great because the competition was very strong. Last week in Auckland, I was able to continue the targeted training and mental adjustments from my winter training, which gave me many positive signals.”

Reflecting on her slump after the US Open last year, Wang Xinyu analyzed rationally: “Actually, I played quite well on grass and during the US season last year. Returning home, I felt a lot of attention and expectations from everyone, which I didn’t handle well. At the Beijing and Wuhan tournaments, I faced some mental challenges that were hard to overcome, but I gradually improved. In Wuhan and Ningbo, I was in a phase of steady progress.”

With Zheng Qinwen absent due to injury, Wang Xinyu is the highest-ranked singles player in the Chinese contingent at this Australian Open, naturally attracting more attention. She said she is now better able to handle external expectations.

“Firstly, since she (Zheng Qinwen) cannot compete, I definitely feel sorry on her behalf. I know she has reached the final here at the Australian Open, which is a tournament she really likes. Through some experiences last year, I have also learned to better view and accept the attention and expectations placed on me.”

Discussing doubles with Zheng Saisai, Wang Xinyu said they are still striving for a Grand Slam title: “Yes, of course (we hope to win a Grand Slam). Last year, not only for me but also for her (Zheng Saisai), we both had ups and downs and faced difficulties. Returning to play doubles together this year feels somewhat more relaxed than last year. Now back on court, we can enjoy the competition more.”

(Edited by: Wang Fei, Photo: Huang Shangyue)