Chinese tennis star Zheng Qinwen has announced her decision to skip the upcoming United Cup mixed team tournament, prioritizing rest and preparation for the 2025 season. Instead, she will kick off her new season at the Australian Open.

During the 2024 season, Zheng played an impressive 68 matches, securing significant victories such as a gold medal at the Paris Olympics and WTA Tour titles in Tokyo and Palermo. Reflecting on a demanding year, Zheng expressed her need for additional recovery time before returning to the courts.

While she is enthusiastic about returning to Australia, Zheng will not participate in the United Cup, where China will face Brazil on Friday as Gao Xinyu leads as the number one women’s player. The Australian Open is set to begin on January 12.

(With inputs from agencies.)