China’s Historic Tennis Victory at the 2024 Paris Games
Right before Zheng Qinwen delivered the very first serve of a victory that would deliver China’s very first Olympic tennis singles gold medal, loud shouts of “Jia You!” in Mandarin rang out from all sections of Court Philippe Chatrier on Saturday as fans waved the country’s red-and-yellow flags. The phrase “Jia You” means “Add oil!” or “Hit the gas!” and signifies encouragement and support, similar to “Let’s go!”. These chants spurred Zheng on as she defeated Donna Vekic of Croatia in the 2024 Paris Games women’s final with a decisive score of 6-2, 6-3.
Zheng expressed her desire to inspire young kids in Asia to love tennis and highlighted the qualities of strength, determination, and speed required in the sport, especially for girls. This Olympic gold medal victory has boosted her confidence and allowed her to play tennis in a more relaxed manner going forward.
Impact on Chinese Tennis
Zheng’s triumph at the Olympics is significant for Chinese tennis as it elevates her to a new level of stardom in the country. She follows in the footsteps of legendary player Li Na, who was the first Chinese player to win Grand Slam singles titles. Zheng’s victory marks another milestone in Asian tennis history, inspiring a new generation of players.
Tactical Victory
During the final match, Zheng demonstrated superior patience and mental strength, which she believes played a crucial role in her success. Despite having strong shots compared to Vekic, she focused on strategic gameplay rather than relying solely on her skill. This tactical approach allowed her to maintain control throughout the match and secure the gold medal.
Inspirational Figures
Aside from Li Na, Zheng also credits her admiration for Roger Federer and Chinese hurdler Liu Xiang as sources of inspiration. By studying Federer’s technique and tactics and drawing motivation from Liu Xiang’s historic victory, Zheng has shaped her own path to success in tennis.
Family Support
Zheng expressed gratitude towards her parents for their unwavering support and dedication throughout her tennis journey. Her parents played a crucial role in her early development in the sport, emphasizing discipline and focus. Zheng acknowledges that her success is a result of their sacrifices and belief in her abilities.
