Qinwen Zheng has captured headlines with a sensational run to the quarterfinals of the 2026 US Open.
Currently ranked No. 121 in the world following elbow surgery, the 2024 Olympic champion had to fight through the qualifying draw to reach the main draw. She is now set to face No. 2 seed Elena Rybakina at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Who Are Qinwen Zheng’s Coaches?
Pere Riba is Qinwen Zheng’s head coach and has been her primary coach since 2021. The former ATP player has played a key role in Zheng’s rise on the WTA Tour, including her historic run to the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Riba has also been in Zheng’s corner during her impressive comeback at the 2026 US Open.
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Zheng expanded her coaching team in March 2026 by adding former world No. 8 and 2006 Australian Open finalist Marcos Baghdatis. The Cypriot joined Zheng’s camp around the Indian Wells tournament, bringing additional experience and a fresh perspective to her game.
Before reuniting with Riba, Zheng worked with Belgian coach Wim Fissette.
Qinwen Zheng’s Naomi Osaka Coaching Controversy
Following the 2023 US Open, where Fissette guided Zheng to her first Grand Slam quarterfinal, the Belgian coach abruptly ended their partnership and chose to reunite with Naomi Osaka ahead of her highly anticipated return to the WTA Tour in 2024 following maternity leave.
The sudden decision sparked controversy and left Zheng publicly frustrated and hurt. She described the contract situation as “immoral” and revealed that she had even cried over the split.
Despite the difficult separation, the coaching change eventually led Zheng to reunite with Riba, her long-term coach. Meanwhile, Fissette’s second stint with Osaka lasted less than a year. The pair ultimately parted ways again in late 2024.
