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Zhang ShuaiChinese tennis player
Date of Birth: 21.01.1989
Country:  China |
Content:
- Early Life and Tennis Beginnings
- ITF Circuit Success
- WTA Breakthrough
- Notable Tournament Performances
- Grand Slams
- Retirement Plans
Early Life and Tennis Beginnings
Zhang Shuai was born on January 21, 1989, in Tianjin, China. Her parents, former footballer Zhang Zhiqiang and former basketball player Wang Fenqin, introduced her to tennis at the age of six at a local tennis club. In 2003, she turned professional and made her debut in the singles competition at the Mollerusa tournament.
ITF Circuit Success
Zhang achieved significant success on the ITF Circuit, winning one $50,000 tournament, eight $25,000 tournaments, and three $10,000 tournaments between 2006 and 2009. This helped her climb to a career-high ranking of 30 in the world in 2014.
WTA Breakthrough
Zhang won her first WTA singles title in Guangzhou in 2013, where she received a wildcard entry. In 2016, she reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open after defeating world number two Simona Halep in a stunning upset. This made her the fourth Chinese female tennis player to reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal.
Notable Tournament Performances
Zhang has competed in numerous Grand Slams and WTA tournaments throughout her career, with some notable performances:
Grand Slams
- Australian Open:Quarterfinals (2016)- French Open:Second round (2019)
- Wimbledon:Third round (2019)
- US Open:Second round (2014)
WTA Tournaments
- Guangzhou International Women's Open:Winner (2013)
- Pattaya Open:Winner (2014) in doubles with Peng Shuai
- Western & Southern Open:Round of 16 (2016)
- China Open:Semifinals (2017)
Doubles Achievements
In addition to her singles success, Zhang has also excelled in doubles play, winning 13 WTA Tour titles and 9 ITF Circuit titles. She has reached a career-high ranking of 29 in the world in doubles.
Retirement Plans
Zhang has stated that she plans to open a small café after retiring from competitive tennis.
