Li Na

Li Na

Li Na is a Chinese professional tennis player. She made the history by becoming the first Chinese player to reach a Grand Slam singles final in the 2011 Australia Open. As of Jan. 31, 2011, Li is ranked No. 7 in the world, a career high. She has a powerful groundstroke, quick reflexes, balanced forehand and backhand skills and dexterous techniques at the baseline. Her strong sense of humor also won her popularity among overseas audiences.

Born on Feb. 26, 1982, Li changed from badminton to tennis when she was 9. She has won 23 singles’ titles and 18 doubles’ titles, including ITF events and WTA tour. In 2001, she grabbed gold medals in the singles’, doubles’ and mixed doubles’ at the National Universiade Sports. In 2011, Li Na won at Sydney against Kim Clijsters, whom she lost to at the Australian Open.

Li is married to Jiang Shan, who is also her coach.