China's Zheng Qinwen hits a shot against Australia's Elena Micic in a women's singles round of 16 match at the Athens Open in Athens, Greece, July 15, 2026. (Photo: Weibo)
China's Zheng Qinwen advanced to her first WTA quarterfinal since the 2025 Queen's Club Championships, 13 months ago, after sweeping past Australian qualifier Elena Micic in the second round at the Athens Open on Wednesday.
The match marked the first meeting between the two players, with Zheng enjoying a strong start after catching the line with an early forehand winner, en route to breaking her opponent's serve to grab a quick 1-0 lead.
Zheng maintained her advantage throughout the opening set, with the World No. 135 closing out the frame 6-4 with another forehand winner.
The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics gold medalist maintained her momentum in the second set, moving ahead 2-0 after laying down a sharp backhand passing shot.
Zheng dominated the remainder of the contest, wrapping up the second set 6-1 with a powerful return winner to seal her place in the last eight.