Close-up- Chinese veteran Zhang Shuai reaps -double happiness- at the China Open

On October 1st, I attended a remarkable event at the 2024 China Open in Beijing, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The atmosphere was electric as the Diamond Court’s LED screens lit up in red, and 35-year-old veteran tennis player Zhang Shuai took the spotlight, leading the crowd in a rendition of “My Country and I.” The powerful voices resonated throughout the venue, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Just before this celebration, Zhang had clinched her place in the women’s singles quarterfinals by defeating Poland’s Magda Linette in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2. After her match, I had the opportunity to ask Zhang about her feelings on this significant day. “I remember my first China Open in 2009, which was the nation’s 60th anniversary. That was a turning point for me. I’m thrilled to reignite my passion at this event,” she reflected.

Zhang fondly recalled her debut at the China Open, entering the tournament as an unseeded player ranked 226th and astonishingly defeating then-world number one Dinara Safina, marking a record for the lowest-ranked player to defeat the reigning “queen” of tennis.

However, before this year’s tournament, Zhang faced a challenging period in her career, enduring a 24-match losing streak in singles on the WTA tour. Starting the China Open ranked 595th, she found her momentum and showcased her potential, winning four consecutive matches without dropping a set.

During the post-match press conference, Zhang discussed the “miracle” of her recent successes. “Competing for your country brings out the best in you. Although I didn’t achieve the results I wanted at the Paris Olympics, I approached the China Open as if it were an Olympic event, and that mindset led to this ‘miracle’,” she explained.

Advancing to the quarterfinals for the third time, especially on National Day, added special significance to this year’s China Open for Zhang. “Winning on such an important day fills me with joy and pride. I hope our nation continues to thrive and grow stronger. As a Chinese player, I aspire to be a role model for the younger generation,” she emphasized.

The venue was adorned with vibrant red flags, and at the spectator services center, visitors were invited to exchange well-wishes for small flags. The Diamond Court was packed, with parents bringing their children to witness the excitement live.

“Zhang Shuai! Go for it!” fans enthusiastically cheered during her hour-and-a-half match. Whenever she faced challenges, the crowd rallied around her. Large screens captured the spirited spectators dressed in red, with flags painted on their faces.

Later that afternoon, Zhang took to social media to express her gratitude to her supporters, writing, “This has been the most wonderful National Day I’ve experienced. Thank you to everyone who was here today; your passion and cheers gave me incredible strength. I’m so happy we shared this day celebrating the 75th anniversary of our new China.”

I also had the chance to speak with Ms. Hu, a local Beijing resident. She brought her 9-year-old daughter to the match after hearing about Zhang reaching the top 16. “Zhang Shuai embodies endless determination and makes the impossible possible, which is truly inspiring. I wanted my daughter to be here, to soak up the atmosphere and hopefully find motivation,” she shared.