China’s Zhu Zhenzhen is setting her sights on making history once again as she prepares for the wheelchair tennis competitions at the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympics. Already a trailblazer in her sport, Zhu aims to achieve a new milestone by claiming a gold medal for her country.
From humble beginnings, Zhu’s journey has been one of perseverance and dedication. An osteomyelitis infection at the age of two left her with a disability, but it did not deter her spirit. It took eight years of rigorous training for Zhu to master playing tennis in a wheelchair, a testament to her unwavering determination.
Zhu began making her mark in 2011 when she won doubles and team golds at the eighth National Para Games of China. Her ascent continued as she reached the quarterfinals in both singles and doubles at the 2016 Rio Summer Paralympics. In 2018, partnering with Huang Huimin, Zhu clinched China’s first gold in women’s doubles at the Asian Para Games in Jakarta.
Turning professional that same year, Zhu has since competed in 11 Grand Slam tournaments, overcoming numerous challenges both on and off the court. In 2023, she became the first Chinese wheelchair tennis player to reach the women’s doubles final at the Australian Open and the singles final at the French Open, marking significant milestones for Chinese representation in the sport.
Zhu’s achievements have not only broken barriers but also inspired many within and beyond China. “Although I am currently ranked fifth in the world, which is a relatively high ranking, I still aspire to stand atop the podium representing China,” Zhu told China Media Group. “I have privately envisioned scenes of myself winning a Paralympic gold medal, and the mere thought of it excites me.”
As she prepares for the Paris Summer Paralympics, set to begin on August 28, Zhu remains focused on her goal. Her journey reflects the spirit of resilience and ambition, serving as an inspiration to athletes around the world.
Three years ago, Zhu finished fourth in the women’s singles event at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Summer Paralympics and earned silver in both singles and doubles at the fourth Asian Para Games in Hangzhou in 2023. Now, she is determined to turn silver into gold.
Zhu’s story is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication and hard work. As the Paralympics approach, all eyes will be on Zhu Zhenzhen as she strives to reach the pinnacle of her sport and bring glory to China.
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Zhu Zhenzhen aims for wheelchair tennis gold at 2024 Paris Paralympics
cgtn.com
