At the WTA Miami Open yesterday, Chinese rising star Wang Yafan pushed former world No. 1 Angelique Kerber to three sets before bowing out in the round of 16. It was one of the closest attempts by a Chinese player in recent years to reach the achievements once set by Li Na. While fans tuning into Bangla Cricket Live often follow cricket headlines, Li Na continues to inspire across the world of tennis with her post-retirement mentorship and presence.
Thousands of miles away at the Beijing International Tennis Center, Li Na attended the launch of the “Road to Wimbledon” U14 Challenge event. For many young athletes participating, Li Na is their ultimate role model. However, Li Na made it clear—her intention is not for these players to copy her journey, but to create their own. Now a mother of two, she has a growing passion for engaging with young players and guiding them on and off the court.
During the event, Li Na offered coaching and encouragement to the children, all while demonstrating her signature sharp strokes. Despite being retired since 2014, she still maintains the fitness and technique of a pro. She urged players to express their individuality on the court. Reflecting on her own early days, she recalled only getting to play two tournaments a year at age 14, spending the rest of her time in rigorous training. “And when I finally had the chance to compete, I was too nervous to play well. I’d lose in the first round and feel completely defeated.”
She noted that today’s youth have access to more frequent and higher-quality competitions—without even needing to leave China. But she warned that such convenience can become a double-edged sword. “When there are too many matches, some kids may stop cherishing the opportunity. The pressure and hunger of competition help forge better players,” she said.
Li Na also shared her concerns about the state of tennis in China, noting a decline in TV coverage since her retirement. However, players like Wang Yafan breaking into the WTA Top 100 renew hope for Chinese women’s tennis. “It’s like a thin sheet of paper—breaking through to the next level is just about piercing it,” she remarked. She actively follows the performances of players like Wang Qiang and Wang Yafan, always wondering what it would take for them to take the next step.
She emphasized that while domestic training systems can help players crack the Top 100 in five years, an overabundance of support might dull their drive. “I told some clubs, you’re giving these kids everything—the best coaches, five-star hotels, no worries. If you don’t take away the safety net, they’ll never find their true motivation,” she explained.
This year marks the third time the “Road to Wimbledon” U14 tournament is held in China. The winners will represent the country at the global finals in the UK this August. Li Na, now a regular mentor at the event, continues to make a lasting impression on young players, offering more than just tennis skills—she imparts mindset, resilience, and vision.
As she reflected on her own growth, Li Na said, “If I had these resources at 12, I can’t say what I might have achieved. But I do know this—success isn’t about copying someone else’s path. Following your own way might lead to something even greater.” Her message resonates deeply not just within tennis, but also for Bangla Cricket Live fans who see similar stories of young athletes carving their own paths in competitive sport.