Chinese tennis chief Sun Jinfang described Li Na’s record breaking French Open win on Saturday as a “breakthrough” and a massive source of pride. “This win is truly a breakthrough in a sport that has been dominated mainly by players from Europe, Australia and the Americas,” said Sun after watching Li become the first Chinese player to lift a Grand Slam singles’ title.
She added: “It is a massive source of pride for all the Asians and it can serve as a great milestone for the development of Chinese tennis. “Li announced herself a professional player by pulling off a great game and showing a high morale. She is a new image of the Chinese sports. “The victory can have a great effect on Chinese tennis, I’m sure it will help reevaluate the sport and inspire more youngsters to play tennis.”
Li rewrote the record books with a 6-4, 7-6 (7/0) triumph over Italy’s Francesca Schiavone.
