Meet Zheng Qinwen, Chinese Gold Medalist Who Also Beat World No 1

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz were on the brink of a dream Olympic final, but it was Zheng Qinwen who truly captured the spotlight at the Paris 2024 Olympics. On August 1, Zheng, from the People's Republic of China delivered a career-defining performance, defeating the 'Queen of Clay' Iga Swiatek 6-2, 7-5 to secure a place in the Olympic final. On August 3, 2024, Zheng defeated Croatia's Donna Vekić in the final, 6–2, 6–3, to win the gold medal in women's singles, becoming the first Asian-born player to win an Olympic gold in singles. This victory marked a significant milestone for Zheng and made her the first Chinese tennis player to reach this stage in the Olympics.

How Zheng Qinwen Broke New Ground For Chinese Tennis

With her remarkable win over the world No.1 Swiatek, Zheng surpassed the previous best result shared with two-time Grand Slam winner Li Na. Li reached the semi-finals at the Beijing 2008 Olympics before losing in the bronze medal match. Zheng, reflecting on her journey, expressed her immense pride in this historic achievement. “I’ve always envisioned this moment. I have been looking forward to Paris 2024 and mentioned it back in 2022,” Zheng shared. “However, anticipation is one thing and achieving it is another. I am incredibly proud to have created this historic moment.”

A Testament To Determination And Endurance

Guaranteed a medal, Zheng will return home as China’s most successful tennis player in Olympic history. Her journey to the final has been nothing short of inspiring, showcasing her relentless determination. She triumphed in two consecutive three-hour matches, including an exhausting marathon against three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber in the quarter-finals. “When I lay down and looked up at the sky, I shouted in triumph. It’s truly indescribable how thrilled I am right now,” Zheng said. “I defeated the world No. 1. The player who has been reigning champion at Roland-Garros for years.”

Olympic Gold and Beyond

On August 3, 2024, Zheng defeated Croatia's Donna Vekić in the final, 6–2, 6–3, to win the gold medal in women's singles, becoming the first Asian player to win an Olympic gold in singles.

Rising Star in Tennis: Zheng Qinwen's Career Highlights

Born on October 8, 2002, Zheng Qinwen has rapidly ascended the ranks of professional tennis. She won her first WTA Tour tournament in 2023 in Palermo, Italy, and successfully defended her title the following year. With three WTA Tour titles, one WTA Challenger title, and eight ITF singles titles under her belt, Zheng was named the 2022 WTA Newcomer of the Year.

Style of Play and Early Career

Zheng is known for her moderately aggressive baseline play, leveraging her athleticism and efficient serve to build her game around movement. She began playing tennis at age seven and trained in various locations, including Wuhan and Beijing, under the guidance of prominent coaches like Carlos Rodriguez and Pere Riba.

Professional Breakthrough

Zheng made her WTA debut in 2021 and quickly climbed the rankings, reaching the top 100 by January 2022. She made significant strides in major tournaments, including a notable fourth-round appearance at the French Open and a quarter-final run at the 2023 US Open. Her perseverance and skill culminated in a historic win at the 2024 Australian Open, where she reached the finals.

Personal Inspirations and Future Aspirations

Zheng cites Li Na, the first Chinese player to win a Grand Slam singles title, as a significant inspiration. Following her Olympic gold win, Zheng expressed her desire to inspire young Asians to pursue tennis, much like her idol Li Na and hurdler Liu Xiang, China’s first Olympic gold medalist in men’s track and field. Zheng attributes her success to the unwavering support of her parents and enjoys hobbies such as walking with her family, reading, and singing.

Zheng Qinwen’s ascent to the top names of tennis is a testament to her talent, determination, and perseverance. As she continues to break barriers and set new records, Zheng is poised to inspire a new generation of tennis players not just in China but around the world.