As the 2025 tennis season progresses, world number 9 Zheng Qinwen welcomes a breath of fresh air amidst a series of disappointments. The Chinese tennis sensation is set to reunite with her coach, Pera Riba, who had to take a medical leave during the initial months of the season. This news comes as a beacon of hope for the 22-year-old player who had an exceptional 2024 season under Riba’s guidance, including a Grand Slam final appearance and a triumphant run at the Paris Olympics.
Riba, a former Spanish tennis player, had to step back from his coaching duties owing to a persistent hip issue that necessitated surgical intervention. This left Zheng without her trusted confidant during the Australian Summer and the Middle East swing, significant events in the tennis calendar.
In Riba’s absence, Zheng sought help from coaches Dante Bottini and Albert Costa. However, the absence of her primary coach was palpably felt as she suffered a lackluster 1-3 start in her first three tournaments of the year. But with Riba’s recovery and imminent return to coaching duties, as confirmed by a recent selfie posted by Zheng captioned “Welcome back,” the tennis starlet is expected to regain her footing on the court.
The Chinese player now prepares for the Double Sunshine tournament at Indian Wells with renewed vigor, aiming to put behind her the unfortunate three-match losing streak that has blighted her 2025 season. After securing a victory against Anca Todoni in the Australian Open first round, Zheng suffered consecutive losses to Laura Siegemund, Ons Jabeur, and Peyton Stearns.
It is worth noting that Zheng’s performance was reportedly hampered by health issues during her three-set loss to Stearns in the Dubai first round two weeks ago. As per a statement provided by the WTA, Zheng complained of cramping in her fingers and calves due to the extreme heat and long waiting periods.
As Zheng gears up for her next challenge at Indian Wells, where she has had two second-round outings in the past, the return of her coach from his medical hiatus is expected to give her the much-needed boost. With the renewed partnership, Zheng sets her sights on turning the tide and making a strong comeback in the 2025 season.