Winning the 2011 French Open, Li Na made history as the first East Asian and Asian player to secure a Grand Slam singles title, broadcast to 330 million viewers globally. She first turned professional in 1999, achieving early success on the ITF Circuit with multiple singles and doubles titles. After returning to professional competition in 2004, Li quickly ascended the ranks, breaking into the WTA top 100 in October 2004. The same year, she claimed her first WTA Tour title at the Guangzhou International Women’s Open, becoming the first Chinese player to achieve this milestone.

Her groundbreaking achievements significantly boosted the sport’s popularity across China and Asia, establishing her as a trailblazer and inspiring a new generation of players. Beyond the court, her independent character and candid personality resonated strongly with audiences, attracting numerous high-profile endorsement deals throughout her career. In recognition of her extraordinary impact and career, Li Na was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2019, a historic first for an Asian player. Her enduring legacy continues to emphasize her unique position as a global sports icon and a highly marketable personality.