Teenager from SW China's Yunnan gains widespread fame for steadfast dedication to sport of tennis

(Photo/Li Jianyi)

A young tennis boy from a mountainous region in southwest China's Yunnan Province has come under the spotlight these days, not only for winning a title in a tennis tour in the country, but also for carrying his rackets in a bamboo basket.

Wang Fa, now 14 years old, is from Cangyuan Wa autonomous county, Yunnan Province. He just won the U14 boys' singles title at the 2022 ASICS Tennis Junior Tour in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province. He was photographed carrying his rackets in a bamboo basket, an iconic product of his hometown.

(Photo/Li Jianyi)

"I've been away from home for a long time. This basket reminds me of my home," he said.

Wang started to learn tennis in 2016, and was among the first batch of children to receive professional tennis training in his county. He and his peers work very hard, and have made huge progress over the years.

(Photo/Li Jianyi)

By playing tennis, Wang, who used to be comparatively introverted, has now become outgoing and confident, and has had the chance to see the world outside his hometown. Despite all the public attention, the boy is still focused single-mindedly on his training.

"My dream is to become a professional tennis player," he said.

(Photo/Li Jianyi)

(Photo/Li Jianyi)

(Photo/Li Jianyi)

(Photo/Li Jianyi)

(Photo/Li Jianyi)