China's Tennis Star, Peng Shuai

Peng Shuai[Photo/JIN Magazine]

Having reached a career ranking of number one in doubles by the Women's Tennis association on February 17th 2014, Peng Shuai is the first Chinese professional tennis play to achieve such an accolade. Throughout the years she has had many notable achievements that include winning a gold medal in the 2010 Asia games, winning the women's doubles in Wimbledon in 2013 and the French open in 2014. Peng has also defeated some of the world's best tennis stars including recognized players such as Maria Sharapova and Martinia Hingis.

Born in 1986 in the Hunan province, she first began playing tennis when her uncle who is a famous tennis coach introduced her to the sport. Like many athletes, Peng also has overcome various obstacles during the course of her career. When she was only thirteen years old Peng had surgery to repair a heart defect. On other occasions she hasn't been able to participate in events due to injury. Yet at 31 years old today, Peng is still a formidable opponent.

She hits the ball double handed on both sides in a style that creates very flat ground strokes and catches her opponents off guard. Her serve and net skills are considered good, be her stamina is one of her greatest strengths. This year she ranks number 26 on the WTA money leader's board, an indication she is one of the top in the world. Fresh off the heels of the Connecticut ending August 26, Peng should be ready for competition in the National Games starting on the 27th.