In a year that will be remembered as a turning point in Chinese tennis, 22-year-old Zheng Qinwen has emerged as a shining star on the global stage. Starting 2024 with lofty expectations following her accolades as the 2022 WTA Tour Newcomer of the Year and the 2023 Most Improved Player, Zheng did not disappoint.
The young prodigy made an impressive run at the Australian Open, reaching her maiden Grand Slam final and breaking into the Top 10 rankings for the first time. However, it was the second half of the year that truly highlighted her meteoric rise. Defending her title in Palermo showcased her consistency, but it was her performance at Roland Garros that etched her name into the history books.
Facing the formidable World No. 1 and four-time French Open champion Iga Swiątek, Zheng delivered a stunning upset that reverberated through the tennis world. This victory propelled her to new heights, culminating in a historic achievement at the Olympic Games, where she became China’s first Olympic singles tennis gold medalist.
Reflecting on her monumental success, the Hubei native shared with Sports Scene, “When I play for my country, there’s always extra strength holding me up on the court. I remember when I was playing at the Asian Games, I was down in the semi-finals, but I turned the match around. As you saw in these Olympic Games, I struggled in a lot of matches and almost lost them. In a regular match, maybe I would have lost, but somehow in these Olympics, I was able to turn it around, fight for my country, fight for myself. To get this gold medal is an unbelievable experience.”
Zheng’s journey this year not only signifies personal triumph but also marks a significant moment for Chinese tennis on the international stage. Her dedication and resilience have inspired many, and her story resonates with aspiring athletes across Asia and beyond. As she continues to break barriers and set new standards, the world watches in anticipation of what this extraordinary talent will achieve next.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
