SERVING AS AN INSPIRATION

"Our goal was never to pursue professional level competition, but to ensure that every participant had a great time," she said.

"I've gained so much from learning to play tennis, whether it's physical health or a deeper understanding of sports. I've benefited immensely," said Qu.

On Dec 16, 2024, she won her first 2.5-level singles title in a Tennis 123-ranked tournament, and, to date, she has earned four championships across singles and doubles events.

The Tennis 123 competition format does not distinguish by age or gender, but instead groups players solely according to their competitive skill level.

"Qu Ying's tennis journey mirrors that of every amateur tennis enthusiast, relying on hard work and passion to gradually reach the amateur 3.0 level," explained Wang.

"Many of our female players are afraid to compete against men, but she never hesitates.

"Her singles ability, physical strength, willpower and the excitement she shows during key points are, I think, qualities that only an outstanding tennis lover possesses."

Thanks to her recent surge in popularity, the second Lun Lun Cup has drawn far more widespread attention than the first.

"I hope that, through tennis, people can make more friends and experience the joy this sport brings. If I can play a role in promoting tennis and making it more accessible, I think that would be very meaningful," Qu said.

"Qu started competing in her 50s, progressing from a 1.5-level player to the top 3.0 level," said Ma Jun, a Beijing native who participated in both editions of the Lun Lun Cup.

"Her journey should serve as an inspiration to everyone. It's never too late to start a sport and dedicate time to what you love.

"The Lun Lun Cup feels like a big party to me," she added.

Ma, in her 30s, was the doubles champion at the first edition and has also found a better life rhythm through her love of tennis.

Once a PhD student in microbiology, she used to lead a sedentary lifestyle.

Her first job after earning her doctorate often left her feeling disappointed when things did not meet her expectations.

In 2019, influenced by her friends, she started playing tennis after work and quickly fell in love with it.

She found that every time she struck the ball, it gave her instant feedback, whether through speed, landing point or sound, allowing her to judge if the shot was good or bad.

"At work, or in relationships, you often put in a lot of effort without receiving timely feedback," she said.

From matches with friends to setting her sights on winning amateur tournament titles, she has become increasingly devoted to tennis.

Meanwhile, the philosophy she has drawn from the sport has continually influenced her life.

"I used to feel very frustrated when my research didn't go well or experiments failed, just like losing a tennis match," explained Ma.

"But, gradually, I realized that playing against a strong opponent is, from another perspective, an opportunity to improve.

"When I changed the way I look at things, my previously stubborn personality opened up."

Her life has also become richer because of the hobby.

Besides playing, she has been able to get closer to her favorite professional players, such as Yuan Yue, through platforms like the China Open, and has even tried her hand at commentating on matches at a local tennis club.

"Tennis has become a window for me to see the outside world," she said.