Li Na
A pioneer of tennis in Asia
Li Na is celebrated for her groundbreaking achievements and her role in popularizing the sport in China.
China’s trailblazer
As the first Asian player to win a Grand Slam® singles title, Li Na has inspired millions across the globe and paved the way for future generations of tennis players in Asia.
The success she had on the court and her charismatic personality made her a trailblazer in her native China.
Inspiring a nation and beyond
Li Na began playing tennis at the age of eight, transitioning from badminton, which she first played under the guidance of her coach.
Her professional career took off in the early 2000s and she became the first Chinese player to win a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour event with victory at the 2004 Guangzhou Open. But it was her victory at Roland-Garros in 2011 that marked a historic moment, making her Asia’s first Grand Slam® singles title winner. She continued to break records, winning the 2014 Australian Open and reaching a career-high ranking of World No. 2. Her influence extended beyond her nine WTA titles. Quite simply, she played a crucial role in increasing the popularity of tennis in China and inspiring a new generation of players.
Li Na’s legacy in her homeland is profound as she not only brought international attention to Chinese tennis but also inspired a wave of young athletes to pursue the sport. Her success led to a surge in tennis participation and viewership in China, contributing to the development of tennis infrastructure and the emergence of new tennis talents – fellow Rolex Testimonee Qinwen Zheng chief among them – on the global stage.
Li Na became a Rolex Testimonee in 2011.