Mixed emotions as Andreeva embraces injured idol after US Open win

Mirra Andreeva, Qinwen Zheng, and Elena Rybakina have all advanced to the US Open quarterfinals after victories over Anastasia Potapova, Iga Świątek, and Naomi Osaka. The Ukrainian star, Potapova, was visibly injured in the final game, having injured her knee during the match. In a display of sportsmanship, Andreeva rushed to Potapova's side to offer comfort and assistance.

After the match, the two shared a warm embrace. Andreeva, who won the 2023 title, recalled fond memories of Potapova, describing her as a prodigious talent from the start. Potapova had previously defeated Andreeva on tour in 2022, but Andreeva has prevailed in their last four encounters. Elsewhere, Qinwen Zheng upset six-time major winner Iga Świątek, reaching the quarterfinals for the first time.

Zheng has become a standout performer at the US Open, overcoming a chronic elbow injury that once held her back. In a thrilling match, Zheng battled back from a 0-5 deficit in the deciding set against Madison Keys before securing the victory. Finally, Naomi Osaka was swiftly eliminated by second seed Elena Rybakina, who dominated the second-seeded player in just over an hour.

The 2023 champion Gauff will face Iva Jovic in an all-American quarterfinal clash to determine the fifth spot.