Unexpected Early Exits at Wimbledon 2025

The 2025 Wimbledon Championships have already delivered one of the most surprising starts in recent memory, with two of the top five seeds falling in the first round. American third seed Jessica Pegula and Chinese fifth seed Zheng Qinwen both suffered unexpected defeats, sending shockwaves through the tennis world.

Jessica Pegula's Disappointing Performance

Jessica Pegula, ranked third in the world, faced a crushing defeat against Italy's Elisabetta Cocciaretto, who is ranked 116th. The match ended with a score of 6-2, 6-3 in just 58 minutes on Court Two. Despite heavy strapping on her right knee, Pegula insisted that her physical condition was not a factor in her loss.

"This is definitely probably the worst result I've had all year," Pegula admitted. "I've been winning lots of matches. It's just all about it having to come together for two weeks. Sometimes it doesn't quite all align when you need it to."

Pegula's early exit marks her worst performance at a major since the 2020 French Open. She has struggled to make consistent progress at Grand Slam tournaments, having only once advanced beyond the quarter-finals, at last year's US Open where she lost to Aryna Sabalenka in the final.

Zheng Qinwen's Struggle Against Siniakova

Less than three hours after Pegula's defeat, Zheng Qinwen also exited the tournament. The Chinese fifth seed lost to Czech Republic's Katerina Siniakova with a score of 7-5, 4-6, 6-1. Siniakova, ranked 81st in singles but a three-time Wimbledon women's doubles champion, showcased her grass-court expertise to secure the victory.

This marks the third consecutive year that Zheng has been eliminated in the first round at Wimbledon. Siniakova had previously knocked her out at the same stage two years ago.

Other Notable Matches

While the top seeds struggled, other players made strong starts. Polish eighth seed Iga Swiatek advanced to the second round with a comprehensive 7-5, 6-1 victory over Russia's Polina Kudermetova. Swiatek, a five-time Grand Slam champion, is aiming to surpass her previous best performance at Wimbledon, where she has yet to go beyond the quarter-finals.

Teenager Mirra Andreeva also impressed, securing a 6-3, 6-3 win against Egypt's Mayar Sherif.

Looking Ahead

The early exits of Pegula and Zheng have opened up the draw, providing opportunities for other players to make a deep run in the tournament. As Wimbledon 2025 continues, fans can expect more thrilling matches and potential upsets on the iconic grass courts of the All England Club.