In a groundbreaking moment for Chinese sports, Zheng Qinwen secured Olympic gold in the women's singles tennis final at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, defeating Croatia's Donna Vekic with a decisive 6-2, 6-3 victory. This triumph marks Zheng as the first Chinese and Asian athlete to top the podium in an Olympic singles tennis event.
Over the past three years, Zheng has risen to prominence as China's leading tennis star, making significant strides in Women's Tennis Association (WTA) competitions. Her journey to Olympic glory was paved by a remarkable semifinal win against World No. 1 Iga Swiatek of Poland, breaking a six-match losing streak against the Polish powerhouse. Zheng described this victory as her best match, showcasing her resilience and determination on the court.
When discussing the differences between competing in the Olympics, Asian Games, and WTA events, Zheng emphasized the unparalleled support she feels when representing the Chinese national team. \"Playing for the national team gives me a sense of responsibility and pride that drives me to perform at my best,\" she stated.
The success at Paris extends beyond Zheng's individual achievement. Her compatriots, Zhang Zhizhen and Wang Xinyu, also made history by securing silver in the mixed doubles competition. Zheng believes that their collective accomplishments will significantly boost the development of tennis in China, inspiring a new generation of players and elevating the sport's profile nationwide.
\"Our success at the Olympics is just the beginning,\" Zheng commented. \"I hope it encourages more young people in China to take up tennis and pursue their dreams.\" The 2024 Paris Olympics have undoubtedly marked a pivotal moment for Chinese tennis, setting the stage for future achievements on the global stage.
Reference(s):
Zheng Qinwen talks about Olympic gold: Huge success for Chinese tennis
cgtn.com
