Zheng: "Finally, I can say that I have made history"

Mónica Barberán Munera | 3 Aug 2024 | 22.34

Sign up with Bet365 here
Make your first deposit of at least €5
Go to the “Live” section and watch every match

Qinwen Zheng will remember this day for a long time, as an Olympic gold is not won every day. In fact, she is the first Asian to achieve it, so history will always remind her of it. The Chinese athlete couldn't wipe the smile off her face since scoring the final point against Donna Vekic in these Paris Olympic Games. It's no wonder, as Zheng concluded her best week to date, something that will drive her to strive for greater achievements like a Grand Slam. In a press conference after her victory, the Chinese athlete talked about her feelings on the court and how tough these days have been physically. She also revealed the key to her victory and discussed how she aims to become an Asian role model beyond Li Na.

“Nothing can describe how I feel right now. Each round has been very emotional. Not a single round where I felt nothing. It's unreal because I've always hoped to win a medal for China. Finally, I did it and it was gold. I feel like I gave my all, and my whole country will be proud of me,” Qinwen told Eurosport right after achieving that coveted Olympic gold.

- The pressure is gone

“When I became Olympic champion, I felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders. Mentally, I feel much lighter to move forward. I can finally say to my family and my father: 'let's go, I just made history!'”

- A very physically demanding tournament

“It's the first time I had to play five matches in a row. My body was in pain after the third match, and I had to play with bandages. It wasn't easy to keep going, but I believe I fought hard and with strength on the court and pushed myself to the limit. I feel very proud of myself because this time I surpassed the pressure, I exceeded my own limit. I didn't know I could play five matches in a row, especially seven hours in two days. I feel that in this tournament, I broke my limits. In the future, no matter how low I am, I will remember this moment and it will encourage me.”

- Tranquility, key to her path to success

“This time, when I was on the court, I learned the lesson on clay. I played well, I was calmer, and I had more patience. I was able to win thanks to that tranquility and patience.”

- Ready for major titles and hoping to inspire the younger ones on her continent

“Winning a Grand Slam is also one of my dreams. It's hard to compare because every era has its own heroes, and Na was one in her time. I hope to work hard and reach my limits to become a better player. I've always been envious of players who make history like Li Na. Whatever happens, she will always be the first because she was the first Asian player to win a Grand Slam. And now, I have become the first Asian player to win the Olympic gold. I have also made history. However, I still have a long way to go, as winning a Grand Slam has always been my dream.

I've always wanted to become one of the Asians who can inspire the young ones and make them love tennis more, because tennis is a fantastic sport, especially for girls. You have to fight, be strong, and be quick. After this gold medal, I feel that I can finally play tennis more relaxed.”

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Zheng: "Por fin puedo decir que he hecho historia"