In the early hours of September 6 Beijing time, Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen produced a sensational display in the third round of the 2026 US Open, rallying to beat American Madison Keys, the world No.22, 1-6, 7-6, 7-5 and reach the round of 16.

The match will be remembered for its dramatic conclusion. Zheng found herself down 0-5 in the deciding set, staring at elimination, only to reel off seven consecutive games to snatch the set 7-5 and complete a jaw-dropping turnaround on the New York hard courts.

Zheng had lost the opening set convincingly but refused to fade, grinding out a tiebreak in the second set to level the match before summoning all her reserves for the remarkable fightback in the third.

Her composure under extreme pressure showcased the mental toughness and resilience that have defined her rise since claiming Olympic gold, and drew roars from the crowd as she clawed her way back from the brink.

With the victory, Zheng extends her winning run at this year's US Open and books her spot in the last 16, keeping alive her bid for a deep run at the season's final Grand Slam.