Lu Jiayi. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]

After claiming first place at the 2023 Nike Cup "Future Star" Greece Trough earlier this month, Lu Jiayi, an 11-year-old girl from Ningbo, won the ticket to the "Global Star of Hope" competition in Greece this spring.

"I love Li Na that one day I can learn from her," Lu said.

Born in July 2011, Lu's speed, stamina and leaping ability were recognized by tennis coach Fan Tao when she was in kindergarten. Since then, Lu has been attending local training schools and devoting herself entirely to the sport.

In March 2021, Lu was selected to join the provincial team and started an independently life on her own.

"I don't have any other hobbies. I spend all my spare time playing tennis and I really enjoy swinging the racket and sweating," Lu said.

"Her love for tennis is obvious. Competitive sports require talent, enthusiasm and a strong will. She has all the good qualities that an athlete needs. I believe that in the future, she will be able to become a professional athlete," Lu's coach said.

Nike cup "Future Star" Greek Trough is a competition open for men and women singles players aged under 12. The top 24 players in the 2022 U12 men and women singles ranking of the 2022 China Tennis Association competed for the final championship.

Lu competes at the final of Nike cup "Future Star" Greek Trough in early January. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]