Chinese tennis ace Zheng Qinwen said she hopes to start her new season on the right foot, aiming for a strong showing at the upcoming Australian Open.

The world No. 5, who finished runner-up in Melbourne last year, made her 2025 debut with a win over Ukraine's Elina Svitolina in a charity match, before partnering Novak Djokovic to defeat Andy Murray and Victoria Azarenka.

The Paris Olympic gold medalist will open her Australian Open campaign by taking on Romanian qualifier Anca Todoni. The 22-year-old said she has been in Australia for several days and feels ready, hoping to find her best form as the tournament goes on.

"I'm delighted to get back to this familiar court. The Australian Open is the first major tournament in the new season, and I will spare no efforts to gain a good result," she said.

The main draw of the 2025 Australian Open runs from Jan. 12 to 26.

Zheng made a name for herself in 2024, highlighted by her Olympic gold in Paris and runner-up finish at the Australian Open. She was also a finalist at the WTA Wuhan Open and the WTA Finals. In the WTA 2024 Fan Awards, Zheng won Fan Favorite Singles Player and notched the WTA 250 Best Moment.

Her commercial value off the court has also soared, making her a favorite of many international brands. On Friday, Ant Group, the operator of Alipay+, announced it has extended its cooperation with Zheng, with both sides planning further initiatives to support women's development and charity programs.

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