China’s newest Olympic champion in women’s tennis, Zheng Qinwen, has expressed relief and excitement following her historic victory on Saturday. The 21-year-old made history by becoming the first Chinese tennis player to win an Olympic singles medal, securing the gold after a thrilling match against Croatia’s Donna Vekic at Roland Garros’s Court Philippe Chatrier.
Zheng’s journey to the Olympic podium wasn’t without its challenges. She fought through two grueling three-set battles, lasting three hours each, including victories over former world number one Angelique Kerber and current world number one Iga Swiatek in the semi-final. “It’s the first time I’ve had to fight five matches in a row,” she said, reflecting on the physical toll of the tournament. “My body was in pain after the third match and I had to play with bandages. It was not easy to keep carrying on.”
Despite the hardships, Zheng persevered, pushing herself to the limit and ultimately achieving a remarkable victory. Her gold medal adds to a successful year that saw her reach the final of the Australian Open in January, making her the second Chinese finalist after Li Na in 2014. This achievement also silenced critics who questioned her stability and mental strength after a series of defeats since the Australian Open, including a first-round exit at Wimbledon in July.
“This time when I stood on the clay court, I learned my lesson. I played right and I was calmer and had more patience,” Zheng said. “I was able to win because of such calmness and patience.”
Zheng, currently ranked number seven in the world, became the second Chinese player to reach an Olympic singles semi-final, following in the footsteps of Li Na, who finished fourth at the Beijing 2008 Olympics. Li, from Zheng’s hometown of Hubei province in central China, is widely considered the most successful tennis player in Asia, achieving a career-high WTA ranking of number two and winning nine singles titles, including two Grand Slam titles at the 2011 French Open and 2014 Australian Open.
Zheng revealed that Li was her childhood hero and she hopes to inspire young children in the same way. “Winning a Grand Slam is also one of my dreams. It’s hard to compare because each era has its own heroes and Na was one in her era,” she said. “I hope to be able to work hard and achieve my limits and be a better player.”
To stay motivated during the Olympics, Zheng cut off all communication and watched videos of Chinese athletes winning Olympic events. “I’ve watched Liu Xiang’s victory at the Athens Games in 2004 (in 110 metres hurdles) many times, trying to inspire myself,” she said. “He was 21 and I am the same age today. I felt I could do it too.”
Now back in the real world, Zheng is looking forward to enjoying the Games atmosphere. “I might go take a look in the Olympic Village and see if I can get some pins,” she said.
Zheng’s victory is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and unwavering belief in herself. Her story is sure to inspire generations of young athletes in China and beyond.
