Tennis star Zheng Qinwen makes history

In 2022, she made her Grand Slam main draw debut right at the Aussie Open, yet had never went beyond the second round at the previous two editions until leaving the tennis world in awe with her amazing run this fortnight.

Zheng became the fourth player born in 2002 or later to reach a Grand Slam final, following 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu, 2021 US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez and Coco Gauff, the 2023 US Open champion and 2022 Roland Garros runner-up. It is the fifth tour-level final of her career; Zheng's record in the previous four is an even 2-2.

"We've been working really hard. We've been putting a lot of effort on the tennis court, also outside it in treatment and fitness (training). It's the little details that help everyday. Thanks again to my team. I can't do it without you guys," Zheng said of her team's support for helping her achieve one of the fastest rises in women's tennis in recent years.

She also took time to appreciate the vocal support from local Chinese fans waving her posters while flying China's national flags at the arena to cheer her up on late Thursday night.

"Thank you so much for all the Chinese friends showing up today. Thanks for the encouragement. The red flags over the stand looked really beautiful. Happy New Year to all of you!" she said.