
Meet Qinwen Zheng, the 22-year-old Chinese tennis powerhouse who’s captivating audiences around the globe with her extraordinary talent and commitment to the spirit of sportsmanship. Renowned for her dynamic playing style and fierce determination, Zheng is equally celebrated for her humility and respect towards fellow athletes.
In a recent interview, Zheng articulated her heartfelt belief that forms the foundation of her athletic philosophy: “I always offer a handshake to my opponent because I believe that embodies the essence of respect.” This simple gesture transcends mere tradition; it reflects her deep sense of character and the principles she stands by.
Zheng’s ascent in the tennis world has been nothing less than remarkable. Hailing from Shiyan, Hubei, China, she picked up a racquet at just seven years old. Her relentless dedication bore fruit as she clinched the gold medal in women’s singles at the 2024 Paris Olympics, making history as the first Asian tennis player, regardless of gender, to achieve this incredible milestone. Additionally, in November 2024, she soared to a career-high WTA ranking of No. 5.
Most recently, her stellar performance at the 2025 Australian Open reaffirmed her elite status. In a challenging opening match, Zheng showcased her prowess against Romanian qualifier Anca Todoni, triumphing with a score of 7-6 (7/3), 6-1. Throughout the encounter, her unwavering respect for her opponent shone brightly amid the pressure.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Zheng is also a multi-talented individual who finds joy in creative pursuits such as reading, singing, and writing. These hobbies not only bring her tranquility but also fuel her passion in the competitive realm of tennis. Balancing an intense professional career with her personal interests illustrates her well-rounded personality.
Qinwen Zheng’s dedication to respect and sportsmanship serves as a powerful reminder of what makes sports truly exceptional. Her handshake is more than a mere formality; it’s a testament to the mutual respect and camaraderie that should characterize competitive athletics. As she continues her impressive journey, Zheng’s legacy will be celebrated not only for her victories but also for the grace and respect she brings to the sport.
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Qinwen Zheng’s Performance at the 2025 Australian Open
1 – 0win/loss
5
5
22 years old
W
Currently ranked No. 5 (career-high), Zheng boasts an impressive overall record of 1-0 for 2025. She is now competing at the Australian Open, where she defeated World No. 110 Anca Alexia Todoni with a score of 7-6 (3), 6-1.
The talented athlete has captured five titles throughout her career: two on hard courts and three on clay courts. (Explore her title victories)