40 Facts About Zhang Shuai

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Zhang Shuai's journey in tennis began at a young age, leading her to become one of China's most prominent players. Her early experiences laid the foundation for her future success.

1. Zhang Shuai was born in Tianjin, China, on January 21, 1989.
2. She started playing tennis at the age of six.
3. Zhang turned professional in 2003, marking the start of her career.
4. Her first singles event was in Mollerusa in August 2003, where she won her first qualifying round match.

ITF Circuit Success

Before making her mark on the WTA Tour, Zhang honed her skills on the ITF Women's Circuit, achieving notable success.

5. After a year on the ITF Women's Circuit, Zhang finished 2004 with a year-end ranking of 901st.
6. She won one $50k event, eight $25k events, and three $10k events between 2006 and 2009.
7. Her consistent performance on the ITF circuit helped her build confidence and experience.

Breakthrough and First WTA Title

Zhang's breakthrough came with her first WTA title, a significant milestone in her career.

8. Zhang won her first singles title at the 2013 Guangzhou Open as a wildcard entrant.
9. This victory marked a significant milestone and boosted her confidence.
10. In 2009, Zhang played in the National Games of China in Dalian, winning the gold medal with her team.

Grand Slam Doubles Champion

Zhang has achieved remarkable success in doubles, including winning Grand Slam titles.

11. Zhang is a two-time Grand Slam champion in women's doubles.
12. She won the 2019 Australian Open and the 2021 US Open, both alongside Samantha Stosur.
13. Zhang achieved a career-high doubles ranking of world No. 2 by the WTA in July 2022.

Singles Career Achievements

While Zhang has excelled in doubles, her singles career has also been impressive.

14. Her career-high singles ranking is No. 22, which she reached in January 2023.
15. Zhang has qualified for the WTA Finals on two occasions.
16. She has won a total of 13 doubles titles on the WTA Tour.
17. Zhang has reached six further semifinals across women's and mixed doubles.

Memorable Matches and Performances

Zhang's career includes several memorable matches and performances that highlight her skill and determination.

18. At the China Open, Zhang has a win-loss record of 2-7 in singles.
19. She has not participated in the Guadalajara Open, with a 0-0 win-loss record.
20. Zhang has played in a total of 194 tournaments.
21. Her overall win-loss record in singles is 224-184, with a career win percentage of 55%.

National and International Representation

Zhang has proudly represented China in various national and international competitions.

22. Zhang has achieved various year-end rankings throughout her career, including a high of No. 10 in singles in 2019.
23. She has competed in the Summer Olympics twice, reaching the second round in both appearances (2012 and 2016).
24. Zhang has represented China in the Billie Jean King Cup since 2009.

Significant Victories and Turning Points

Certain victories and turning points have significantly impacted Zhang's career trajectory.

25. In 2009, she claimed a shock victory over then-World No. 1 Dinara Safina at the China Open in Beijing.
26. The National Games of China in 2009 provided her with considerable confidence.
27. In the 2017 US Open, Zhang led Karolina Pliskova before succumbing in three tight sets.
28. Zhang has a strong attachment to the Guangzhou International Women's Open, where she won her first singles title in 2013 and repeated her success in 2017.

Consistent Performance and Resilience

Zhang's career is marked by consistent performance and resilience, even in challenging times.

29. The end of the 2017 season went perfectly for Zhang, as she claimed the title at the $100,000 ITF Challenger event in Tokyo.
30. She won the second WTA 125K Series event of her career at the Hawaii Open in Honolulu.
31. Throughout the off-season, Zhang stuck with what worked for her over the last two years.
32. Her confidence and motivation were boosted by her performances in the late summer of 2017.

Emotional and Historical Milestones

Zhang's career includes emotional and historical milestones that have shaped her journey.

33. Zhang persevered and outhit Halep for an emotionally uplifting first-round upset at the US Open.
34. She felt she changed her history with her performances in 2017.
35. These solid results meant there was no reason to change what worked for her.
36. In 2018, Zhang was highlighted in a WTA scouting report as someone who had improved dramatically in the last two years.

Recognition and Elite Status

Zhang's achievements have earned her recognition and a place among the elite players in women's tennis.

37. She was described as a hard-hitting player who had consistently been in the Top 50 for the last two years.
38. Her shock victory over then-World No. 1 Dinara Safina in 2009 was a significant moment in her career.
39. The National Games of China provided her with valuable experience and confidence.
40. In the 2017 US Open, she led Karolina Pliskova before succumbing in three tight sets, showing her ability to compete at the highest level of Grand Slam tournaments.

Zhang Shuai: A Tennis Star's Journey

Zhang Shuai's career is a testament to hard work and resilience. Starting tennis at six and turning pro by 2003, she has climbed the ranks with determination. Her first WTA singles title at the 2013 Guangzhou Open was a game-changer. Zhang's prowess in doubles is undeniable, with two Grand Slam titles and a career-high doubles ranking of world No. 2. Her singles career isn't shabby either, peaking at No. 22. Representing China in the Billie Jean King Cup and the Olympics, she’s shown her national pride. Zhang's victories over top players like Dinara Safina and her emotional US Open run highlight her competitive spirit. Consistency and a strong support team have kept her at the top. Zhang Shuai's journey from ITF circuits to Grand Slam champion showcases her dedication and love for tennis. Her story inspires many aspiring athletes worldwide.