From 2014 to 2024: How Zheng Qinwen channeled Li Na's legacy to inspire a new generation

A trailblazing figure in Chinese and Asian tennis, Li Na is often celebrated not only for her sublime accomplishments on the court but also for her genuine and unfiltered nature. This aspect of her personality was exemplified in a recent episode that occurred after Zheng Qinwen's win over compatriot Wang Yafan, which marked her first-ever entry into the round of 16 at the Australian Open.  

As Zheng was being interviewed on TV, little did she know that Li, with a slight stoop and lowered head, would quietly maneuver around the cameras and suddenly appear right in front of her. Before Zheng had a chance to react, Li playfully smacked her on the backside, producing a clear and resonant sound that echoed throughout the room. It's hard to fathom that Li would choose such an unconventional and audacious way to greet her young fan during their very first encounter.  

Yet, this is precisely what makes Li so captivating: her directness, audacity, and an irresistible charm that carries an element of risk, yet leaves people unable to resist her magnetic presence.

A full decade ago, on January 25th, Chinese tennis enthusiasts were drawn to their television screens, mesmerized by Li's beguiling aura. They bore witness to her remarkable journey as she became the first Asian player to claim the prestigious Australian Open singles title. Among those engrossed viewers was a young Zheng, a mere 11 years old at the time, who, alongside her fellow tennis-playing companions in Wuhan, watched every moment of Li's historic triumph unfold before their very eyes.

Hailing from the same province of Hubei, Zheng held Li in the highest regard, considering her as her ultimate idol. Like Li, Zheng dared to dream of someday lifting a Grand Slam trophy. However, she could hardly have anticipated that within a mere 10 years, her own aspirations would be so close to fruition.

Seeded 12th, Zheng blazed into her first-ever Grand Slam final at this year's Australian Open, unleashing a formidable performance that saw her triumph over qualifier Dayana Yastremska with a commanding 6-4, 6-4 victory on Thursday night. In doing so, she becomes the first Chinese player since Li's triumph in 2014 to reach a major final, edging closer to turning her childhood dream into reality.

Staying true to her character, Zheng attributed her breakthrough semifinal win to the invaluable advice imparted by Li during that memorable encounter. "She [Li] told me, 'Don't think too much. Just go for it. That's enough, I think," Zheng humbly shared. "She means a lot for all the Chinese kids [of my generation]. Because she's the first to win the Grand Slams. That's unbelievable for an Asian woman during that time. She gives a lot of hope in that moment to young kids."

For those who are closely following Zheng's journey, it comes as no surprise that she has been making waves in the tennis world. While it may be true that she hasn't faced opponents ranked within the Top 50 during her six outings in Melbourne, there's no doubt about her attacking prowess and aggressive style of play. The statistics speak for themselves, with Zheng leading the women's field in aces by a significant margin.

Her talent and determination have not gone unnoticed by the tennis community. In recognition of her progress, Zheng was honored with the WTA's Most Improved Player award in 2023. She has also made her mark in prestigious tournaments, reaching the quarterfinals at last year's U.S. Open and being the only player to snatch a set off the world No.1 Iga Swiatek at the French Open.

Zheng's success is not an isolated phenomenon; she is a shining example of the consistency displayed by her fellow Chinese players. In the latest WTA rankings released earlier this month, an extraordinary seven Chinese players made their mark in the world's top 100, marking a historic milestone. Among them, Zhu Lin secured her first-ever WTA Tour title by triumphing at the 2023 Thailand Open and achieved a runner-up finish at the Osaka Open.  

And when discussing the most impressive Chinese female prospect on the international stage in 2023, the spotlight falls on Wang Xinyu, rather than Zheng. This 22-year-old sensation showcased her talent by reaching at least the second round in all four Grand Slam events last year, outshining her compatriots.  

Notably, Wang formed a dynamic partnership with Hsieh Su-wei from Chinese Taipei and together, they lifted the prestigious women's doubles trophy at the French Open. Meanwhile, players such as Yuan Yue, Wang Yafan, Wang Xiyu, and Bai Zhuoxuan, who also secured their spots in the top 100, made significant strides in their performances throughout the past year. 

Moreover, there have been significant breakthroughs in Chinese men's tennis after years of struggle. Zhang Zhizhen became the first Chinese player in 29 years to win the Asian Games men's singles title before making history by reaching the doubles semifinals in this year's Australian Open.  

Wu Yibing came out on top at the Dallas Open, becoming the first male player from the Chinese mainland to win an ATP Tour singles title. And at a mere 18 years of age, Shang Juncheng made his mark by advancing to the third round at Melbourne Park.

Just as Li's charisma and exceptional skills propelled Chinese tennis to unparalleled heights, Zheng and her fellow teammates have the potential to ignite a similar spark for the next generation. 

When asked about her achievement on Thursday, precisely 10 years after Li's historic triumph, Zheng eloquently stated, "When everything aligns perfectly, I do believe in destiny. However, if destiny doesn't favor me, I don't cling to it. Ultimately, it all comes down to where destiny leads." One can only imagine the reaction of Zheng's ardent fans upon hearing her sharp-witted words.  

Besides her sharp tongue, Zheng also has a tender side. "When I was young, I had many expectations and dreams of becoming a professional tennis player," she mused. "Now, I just want to strive to be a role model in the hearts of the new generation."  

"I want to be an example for children, so that when they see me, they know that I am not only a good player, but also a good person, a young, fantastic role model who can inspire them to move forward."

After a decade-long wait, the baton of succession has finally been passed, accompanied by the crisp sound of that famous slap on the backside.