The Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Shenzhen will go ahead without some of women’s tennis’ biggest names, as Madison Keys, Naomi Osaka, and Zheng Qinwen all confirmed their withdrawals. The event runs from September 16–21 at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre Arena, with eight nations competing for the title.
China will open against defending champion Italy, while Spain meets Ukraine, Kazakhstan faces the USA, and Great Britain clashes with Japan. Yet much of the attention is focused not on the draw, but on the growing list of absent stars.
Zheng Qinwen’s Setback for the Host Nation
For the host team, Zheng Qinwen’s withdrawal is a major disappointment. The 22-year-old had elbow surgery in July and was forced to miss the US Open as part of her recovery. She recently completed rehabilitation at the Rennbahnklinik in Switzerland and was initially cleared to return. However, reports now confirm she will not compete in Shenzhen, a decision that leaves China without its top-ranked player at a crucial moment.
Osaka and Keys Add to the Withdrawals
Japan’s Naomi Osaka, a former world number one, is another headline absence. Osaka recently impressed with a run to the US Open semifinals before losing to Amanda Anisimova. Despite the defeat, she described the experience as “inspiring” and said it renewed her motivation. Still, her decision to skip the Billie Jean King Cup robs Japan of their leading star.
For the United States, Madison Keys’ withdrawal is a further setback after Coco Gauff and Anisimova had already pulled out. Keys exited the US Open in a surprising first-round loss to Renata Zarazua, and her absence leaves Team USA without its top three ranked women — a serious blow to their chances in Shenzhen.
Other High-Profile Names Missing
The withdrawals don’t stop there. Britain’s Emma Raducanu announced last week that she would instead compete in a WTA event in Seoul, prompting disappointment from the LTA. Spain’s Paula Badosa continues to sit out due to a lingering back injury, while Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur remains on an extended break to prioritize her mental health.
With so many marquee players missing, the Billie Jean King Cup Finals promise a different complexion this year. The tournament now feels wide open, offering a chance for new stars to seize the spotlight and for underdog nations to push deeper than expected in Shenzhen.