'That would be strange': Qinwen Zheng's warning to rivals over prickly net behaviour
Qinwen Zheng has warned her rivals to not expect a "smiley" response at the net if an Australian Open match does not go her way.
Returning with the memories of a rocky run at Melbourne Park last season, Zheng produced a straight-sets victory over Romanian qualifier Anca Todoni on Sunday.
The 22-year-old battled small bumps on her path to success in the first set but overcame the challenge to cruise to a 7-6(3), 6-1 victory.
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Todoni, world No.110, saved three set points to put Zheng on notice early in the battle before unveiling a number of powerful and classy shots to shift momentum in her favour.
But the Chinese talent raced away with the match in the second set to nab a spot in the second round.
Qinwen Zheng of China plays a forehand. Getty
As the pair walked towards the net to shake hands, many watched to see how Zheng would conduct herself.
Zheng's demeanour at the net in the past has received criticism from fans and fellow players, who have taken umbrage with her cold looks and dismissive handshakes.
Emma Navarro of the US labelled the young gun's acts at the net as "disrespectful" and "cut-throat", while Zheng's frosty encounter with Aryna Sabalenka at last year's US Open went viral.
At the net on Rod Laver Arena on Sunday, there were no signs of a similar interaction occurring as Zheng shook hands with her rival.
"I always give a handshake to my opponent," she said.
"I feel that's basic respect. It doesn't matter if I win or lose, I will give a handshake.
Qinwen Zheng (left) and Anca Todoni shake hands at the net. Getty
"But not always with a smiling face. I know myself. I don't often hug my opponent because I feel that's unnecessary.
"I come here just to play a match. If I lose, I will give basic respect and that's it.
"That's why you wouldn't see me lose a match and then have a happy face towards my opponent. If you did, that would be strange and would mean I didn't care about that match on that day."
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Zheng opened up on her off-court passions.
"I feel the tennis court is one place, it's my dream. It's like where I want to become better," Zheng said.
"But also I can find peace outside of the tennis court.
"I love reading, I love singing. I feel every time when I sing I am in that flow also, same like on the tennis court. When I am reading or writing, it is the same things."
