In a triumphant close to a stellar season, China’s World No. 5 Zheng Qinwen has been voted the WTA Singles Fan Favorite, as announced by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). The 22-year-old rising star captured the hearts of fans worldwide with her remarkable performances throughout the year.
Zheng began the season with a breakthrough at the Australian Open, reaching her maiden Grand Slam final at Melbourne Park. Her runner-up finish propelled her into the Top 10 rankings, making her only the second Chinese player to achieve this milestone, following the legendary Li Na.
Building on her momentum, Zheng claimed her first title of the year at the Palermo Ladies Open, winning the event for the second consecutive time. She made history by becoming the first Chinese tennis player to win a singles gold medal at the Paris Olympics. The triumph in Paris not only marked a personal victory but also a significant achievement for Chinese tennis on the global stage.
The 22-year-old continued her successful year by capturing her second title of 2024 at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo, rounding off the Asian swing in style. Her consistent performances earned her a debut at the prestigious WTA Finals, where she finished as the runner-up, further cementing her status among the elite in women’s tennis.
Fans worldwide have resonated with Zheng’s tenacity, athleticism, and inspiring journey, factors that undoubtedly contributed to her being honored as the Fan Favorite in Singles. Her rise not only reflects her personal dedication but also signifies the growing prominence of Chinese athletes in international sports.
As Zheng Qinwen looks ahead, her remarkable achievements this season have set a high bar for the future. With a strong foothold on the global stage at such a young age, she is poised to inspire a new generation of tennis enthusiasts in China and around the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com