Chinese athlete Zheng Qinwen has etched her name into Olympic history by becoming the first Chinese and first Asian player to win a gold medal in an Olympic singles tennis event. At the iconic Roland Garros stadium during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, Zheng delivered a commanding performance against Croatia’s Donna Vekic, winning the final match 6-2, 6-3.
Zheng’s victory not only marks a personal triumph but also represents a significant milestone for China in the sport of tennis. Her gold medal is China’s second in Olympic tennis history, following the women’s doubles title won by Li Na and Sun Tiantian at the Athens Games in 2004.
“Right now I feel super excited,” Zheng expressed after her stunning victory. “Because before the Olympic Games, I haven’t thought I got to win the gold medal. I always have expectations since 2022 for this Olympic Games, but the moment I won this gold medal, nothing can describe this feeling because I have been working so hard for this moment, representing the country. And I’m so happy to become the first one and make the history for China.”
Zheng credited her inspiration to Chinese tennis legend Li Na, who had a profound impact on her during her formative years. “Li Na inspired me a lot when I was a child,” Zheng reflected. “She put the dream seed inside me when she won her first Grand Slams, when she broke the records for Asian girls in tennis. Right now, here I am. I’m really happy to become the first one to win the Olympic medal for China in tennis. And I hope that my achievement can inspire more young kids, make them love tennis, because I always feel tennis is such a great sport.”
The victory highlights China’s growing prominence in international tennis and is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes in Asia. Zheng’s historic win is a testament to her dedication and the increasing competitiveness of Asian players on the global stage.
Reference(s):
Zheng Qinwen becomes first Asian Olympic tennis singles gold medalist
cgtn.com
