Ziying’s Wimbledon Victory Aims to Inspire Future Chinese Wheelchair Tennis Stars

LONDON: Overcoming Japan’s top-seeded Yui Kamiji, Wang Ziying of China clinched her first Grand Slam title in the women’s wheelchair singles competition at Wimbledon on Saturday. She secured the win in two straight sets, with a final score of 6-3, 6-3.

Kamiji, a seasoned player with ten Grand Slam singles titles, had hoped to achieve a career Grand Slam by winning her inaugural Wimbledon title. Heading into the match, Kamiji was heavily favored, having won eight out of her previous nine matches against Ziying.

However, Ziying delivered an energetic and unwavering display, effectively changing the expected outcome.

Ziying secured the initial set by capitalizing on her fifth set point, demonstrating notable determination. She clinched the match victory on her first opportunity when Kamiji’s backhand landed in the net, marking a significant milestone for Chinese wheelchair tennis.

Visibly moved by her triumph, Ziying commented, “I still can’t fully grasp that I am the Wimbledon champion. It feels like I’m still in the middle of the match.”

Expressing her happiness and pride, she further stated, “I am incredibly pleased and thrilled to have won, as this represents a breakthrough in Chinese history and for our sport. My heart is overflowing with excitement—it’s truly surreal.”

Ziying expressed her hope that her victory will motivate a new wave of Chinese wheelchair tennis athletes.

“I believe being a Wimbledon champion will serve as an inspiration to younger Chinese players. It demonstrates that with dedication, dreams can be realized. There will be challenges, but with persistence, success is attainable,” she concluded.