Chinese tennis star Zheng Qinwen pulled off a thrilling three-set 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 comeback win over former Australian Open champion and 15th seed Madison Keys in the third round at WTA 1000 Miami Open. The 23-year-old Chinese ace had earlier defeated former US Open champion Sloane Stephens 6-3, 6-2.

With back-to-back wins over two Grand Slam champions, she books her place in the last 16 in Miami for the third time in her career.

“This match really was not easy. I think Madison played incredible tennis, the ball was like a bomb for me, and I couldn’t react quick enough. I haven’t played in a match with this kind of speed for a long time, so took me some time to adapt. But, I really enjoy playing in Miami, so, I hope I can stay in the tournament a while longer,” Zheng said in her post-match interview.

Miami marks Zheng’s first successes since the arrival of her new coach Marcos Baghdatis.

“I always want to have a second coach. Also, my coach Pere Riba is helping me a lot. We have been working together for five years. Marco just joined at Indian Wells, I really hope we can work well together.”

The reigning Olympic women’s singles champion opened up about her six-month layoff following her elbow surgery last summer, saying that, without tennis, life felt lackluster.

“I think it’s nice to compete with all of the girls, and I really miss being in front of the crowd and playing such intense matches. During those six months without pressure and tennis, I felt like my life was so boring. I love tennis, and I love to play tennis,” she said.

Next up, Zheng will face world No 1 and four-time Grand Slam champion Aryna Sabalenka, the top seed in Miami. It will be their ninth career meeting, with advantage very much with Sabalenka — the Belarusian is currently 7-1 against Zheng.

“Obviously, she is a wonderful player, she’s had great performances in the past few years and is so consistent. She is a tough opponent to beat. I’m just gonna fight tomorrow, and let’s see where I am,” Zheng said.

Sabalenka is relishing the challenge.

“I will just focus on myself and my game, from the very first point to the last one,” the Belarusian said.

“She is a really incredible player, it’s always tough to play her, but I always look forward to it. It’s always a fight, and I really enjoy it.”