After a challenging year marked by a series of defeats, 35-year-old Chinese tennis star Zhang Shuai remains undeterred in her pursuit to climb back up the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings. Following a commendable performance reaching the quarterfinals at the recent China Open, Zhang faced a setback with a first-round exit at the Wuhan Open this week.
Prior to her inspiring run in Beijing, Zhang experienced a tough streak, losing 24 consecutive singles matches. Despite these hurdles, she continues to exude positivity and determination. In an exclusive interview with Sport Scene’s Shen Xiang, Zhang opened up about her struggles and unwavering commitment to the sport she loves.
“Every match is a new opportunity,” Zhang shared. “Even though the losses have been difficult, they have taught me valuable lessons about resilience and perseverance.”
Zhang, a home favorite, emphasized the importance of staying focused and maintaining a positive mindset. She expressed confidence in her ability to rebuild her WTA ranking and contribute to the sport both nationally and internationally.
“I believe in my journey and the support of my fans,” she said. “Challenges are a part of any athlete’s career, and I am committed to overcoming them.”
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Exclusive: Zhang Shuai opens up on hard times and staying positive
cgtn.com
