“I just know Zheng Qinwen wanted to slap Iga Swiatek & have her disqualified” – Fans react to Pole hitting Chinese on arm during United Cup warm-up

Poland’s Iga Swiatek recently smashed a serve into Zheng Qinwen’s arm during the warm-up at United Cup 2024. The incident has evoked mixed reactions from tennis fans on the internet.Swiatek thumped Qinwen in straight sets on Wednesday, December 3, at the RAC Arena in Perth to secure Poland a spot in the semifinals of the United Cup.

This is Poland’s second successive semifinal appearance; they suffered a heartbreaking loss to eventual champions United States in 2023.
Swiatek and Qinwen shared an uncomfortable moment before it all began on Wednesday. During the warm-up routine, the Pole served right at the Chinese and caught her arm.The strike seemingly disappointed Qinwen, who failed to see it coming as she was facing a ball-kid. The World No. 1 quickly apologized but her opponent didn’t appear impressed.Netizens have been divided over the incident. One section of fans believes Swiatek’s act was unintentional and that her admission was satisfactory. On the other hand, another set of tennis lovers believes the Pole wasn’t honest with her apology.

A fan on X (formerly Twitter) targeted Swiatek, writing:
“You can’t buy class, respect and aura. Disgusting stuff from Iga here, if this was [Aryna] Sabalenka or Coco [Gauff] people would be going mad.”