It’s a pleasure to be here and to finally talk about securing a win at Wimbledon. I am beyond thrilled to have achieved this milestone, especially after my previous experiences in 2021 and 2022, where I had promising starts but ultimately fell short. This victory feels incredibly rewarding.
Breaking Ground for Chinese Tennis
Today's win isn't just personal; it's historic. Being the first Chinese man ever to be seeded at a major tournament is an honor, and I felt comfortable and confident on the grass. This comfort can be attributed to my coach, Randy Lu, who has shared invaluable insights and techniques with me. His experience, especially his memorable victory over Andy Roddick at Wimbledon, has been instrumental in my preparation and success on grass courts.
Building Confidence with Big Wins
Earlier this year, I reached the semifinals in Halle and defeated Daniil Medvedev, a victory that boosted my confidence immensely. That win was particularly satisfying as it avenged a painful loss to Medvedev in the qualifying rounds a few years ago. Remembering those tough matches and overcoming them has been a huge confidence booster.
Starting Young and Growing Tall
I began playing tennis at age four because I was too small for other sports. My father, a former soccer player, discouraged me from following in his footsteps due to the challenges and uncertainties in Chinese soccer. He believed that tennis, with its focus, would be a better path. His foresight has paid off, as tennis allowed me to control my destiny and showcase my talents.
Mental Fortitude and Physical Presence
In tennis, the mental game is as crucial as the physical one. Maintaining calm and composure, even after losing points, is vital. Handling the mental challenges of the sport is tough, but it’s essential for success. Physically, I aim to bring power and precision to every shot, but mentally, I strive to stay calm and focused.
On-Court vs. Off-Court Personality
Interestingly, my on-court demeanor is quite different from my off-court personality. On the court, I’m quiet and serious, focusing entirely on the game. Off the court, I’m much more talkative and funny, enjoying conversations and making jokes. But during a match, seriousness is paramount.
Friendships and Support on Tour
On tour, I share a great bond with fellow Chinese player Jerry Shang. Both of us advanced to the second round, making history together. It’s inspiring to see each other succeed and support one another. This camaraderie is reminiscent of college tennis, a unique experience I’ve always wanted to try.
The Rise of Men’s Tennis in China
Men's tennis in China is on the rise. We've been breaking records and making significant progress, showing young players that success in this sport is attainable. Just a few years ago, the idea of a Chinese player being in the top 50 was unimaginable. Now, it’s a reality, proving that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The achievements in men’s tennis are not just personal victories but inspirations for the next generation. Seeing us succeed shows young players that they, too, can reach these heights. As Billie Jean King famously said, "You have to see it to be it." Now, young Chinese players can see us and believe in their potential.
Looking Forward
Securing this win at Wimbledon is a significant step in my journey. I’m grateful for the support and excited for what’s to come. Thank you for the congratulations, and I look forward to continuing this exciting journey at Wimbledon and beyond.