Zheng's Journey: From Grand Slam Finalist to Olympic Champion

Zheng Qinwen, the rising tennis star, has reflected on her tumultuous season following her first Grand Slam final appearance at the Australian Open, where she lost to Aryna Sabalenka. Speaking to reporters at Flushing Meadows ahead of the US Open, Zheng acknowledged the challenges she faced post-Australia, including a dip in motivation and changes in her practice routine. She emphasized the importance of maintaining her mental strength and motivation, especially after winning an Olympic gold medal. "I want to keep the motivation on and improve my mental side," she stated. The young athlete is determined to overcome the hurdles that come with being a champion, focusing on the need to sustain her competitive edge rather than becoming complacent. Zheng believes that if she can maintain her focus and avoid losing easy matches, she will be able to break through personal barriers that have held her back. In addition to her athletic pursuits, Zheng has enjoyed personal milestones, including a recent trip to China where she met the president and spent quality time with her family. This visit provided her with a sense of peace and renewed motivation, as her father set new targets for her. Zheng draws inspiration from her father, Liu Xiang, who won gold in the 110m hurdles at the Athens Olympics in 2004. At 21, she sees parallels in their journeys and hopes to seek his advice on handling pressure and expectations in the future.