In an inspiring turn of events at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, retired Chinese sailboat racer Xu Lijia couldn't contain her excitement over the stellar performances of tennis sensations Zheng Qinwen, Zhang Zhizhen, and Wang Xinyu. Speaking to CGTN Sports Scene's Greg Laffradi on Saturday, Xu praised the trio for making history and bringing pride to the Chinese mainland. 🎾🇨🇳
Zheng Qinwen delivered a jaw-dropping upset by defeating World No. 1 Iga Swiatek of Poland, becoming the first Chinese player to reach a singles final at the Summer Olympics. Talk about smashing barriers! She’s set to face off against Croatia's Donna Vekic for the gold medal on Saturday, and the excitement is palpable. 🏅🔥
Meanwhile, dynamic duo Zhang Zhizhen and Wang Xinyu made waves in the mixed doubles. Despite a fierce battle that ended in three sets against the Czech pair Tomas Machac and Katerina Siniakova, they clinched the silver medal—marking China’s first podium finish in tennis at the Olympics held in the French capital. Silver never shined so bright! 🥈✨
\"Their dedication and spirit are truly commendable,\" Xu Lijia remarked. \"They've opened a new chapter for tennis in the Chinese mainland, and it's only the beginning.\" 🌟
Xu, who turns 37 at the end of August, knows a thing or two about making history. With a 20-year career in sailing, she captured gold in London 2012 and bronze in Beijing 2008, even carrying China's flag at the Closing Ceremony in 2012. She's a trailblazer cheering on the next generation of athletes making their mark. ⛵️🏆
This Olympic season is turning out to be one for the books, with Chinese athletes pushing boundaries and inspiring fans worldwide. Keep your eyes peeled, because the best is yet to come! 👀💪
Reference(s):
Chinese Olympic gold medalist praises work of country's tennis players
cgtn.com
