Retired Chinese sailboat racer Xu Lijia has lauded the remarkable performances of tennis players Zheng Qinwen, Zhang Zhizhen, and Wang Xinyu at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. Speaking with CGTN Sports Scene’s Greg Laffradi on Saturday, Xu expressed immense pride in the athletes’ groundbreaking achievements.
Zheng Qinwen made headlines by defeating World No. 1 Iga Swiatek of Poland, becoming the first Chinese player to reach a singles final at the Summer Olympics. She is set to compete against Croatia’s Donna Vekic for the women’s singles gold medal on Saturday, marking a historic moment for Chinese tennis.
Meanwhile, the duo of Zhang Zhizhen and Wang Xinyu brought glory to the Chinese mainland by reaching the mixed doubles final. They faced the Czech pair of Tomas Machac and Katerina Siniakova on Friday. Despite a hard-fought battle that ended in three sets, Zhang and Wang secured a silver medal, scripting a new chapter for Chinese tennis at the Olympics.
Xu Lijia, who turns 37 at the end of August, enjoyed a stellar 20-year career as a sailboat racer. She clinched a gold medal at the London 2012 Olympics and a bronze at the Beijing 2008 Games. Xu also had the honor of being the Chinese flagbearer during the Closing Ceremony in London.
Reflecting on the tennis stars’ achievements, Xu commented, “Their performances have not only made the Chinese people proud but have also set new standards for future athletes. It’s inspiring to see the younger generation pushing boundaries and making history on such a grand stage.”
As the Paris Games continue, the success of athletes like Zheng, Zhang, and Wang serves as a testament to the growing prowess of Chinese sports on the global stage. Their accomplishments are expected to inspire a new wave of talent and enthusiasm for tennis across the region.
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Chinese Olympic gold medalist praises work of country's tennis players
cgtn.com
