In the early hours of August 31, 2024, Beijing time, the tennis world witnessed two remarkable performances by Chinese players at the US Open. Rising star Zheng Qinwen breezed through her third-round match, advancing to the last 16 with a commanding victory. Meanwhile, fellow Chinese player Wang Yafan fought a tough battle against former world No. 1, Belarusian Victoria Azarenka. After an intense match, Wang emerged victorious, joining Zheng in the last 16, marking a significant achievement for Chinese tennis.

Wang Yafan's journey is particularly inspiring. Just two years ago, she was contemplating retirement, but now, at 30, she has reached the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time, surpassing her previous best of reaching the third round at this year's Australian Open. Reflecting on her success, Wang expressed her excitement, saying, "This is my first time reaching the second week of the US Open, and I'm thrilled."

Beyond the court, Wang Yafan has strong ties to Dongguan, where she serves as a member of the Dongguan Youth Federation and is affectionately known as the "Dongguan Daughter-in-Law." Her connection to the city deepened after marrying Tang Jiawei, Tennis King in Dongguan, in 2019, making Dongguan her second home. Every year, after the international tennis season ends, she returns to Dongguan, where she finds a sense of belonging.

Despite her global schedule, Wang continues to practice regularly in Dongguan, often at the city's sports venues. In 2021, Wang attended the "Zheng Jie Cup" National Youth Tennis Tournament held in Dongguan, where she encouraged young players. Looking ahead, she hopes to establish a tennis club in Dongguan, where she can help foster the next generation of players. "I want to contribute to tennis here, but finding the right place will take time," she explains.