Born: 1994
Tai Tzu-ying (Chinese: 戴資穎; pinyin: Dài Zīyǐng; Wade–Giles: Tai Tzu-ying; born 20 June 1994) is a Taiwanese badminton player. At the age of 22, she became world No. 1 in women’s singles in December 2016, holding onto that title for the longest duration in BWF history, with 214 weeks (as of 30 August 2022). Tai has achieved remarkable success in her career, with numerous accolades and records to her name.
Tai’s journey in badminton began in elementary school, influenced by her father, who was a firefighter and the director of Kaohsiung City’s badminton committee. She started playing badminton in either the fourth or fifth grade and quickly displayed her talents. By the sixth grade, she participated in the National ranking tournament, where she won the title in the second division, making her the youngest player to compete in the first division.
In 2007, Tai made her debut in an international tournament, the Vietnam International. Two years later, she showcased her potential by winning the silver medal at the Asian Junior Championships. Despite her young age, Tai competed at the senior level and became the runner-up at the Vietnam Open, a Grand Prix tournament. She also represented Chinese Taipei in the East Asian Games, winning a bronze medal in women’s singles and contributing to the team’s silver medal.
The year 2010 marked a significant milestone for Tai as she entered the Superseries event at the Korea Open. In June, she experienced one of the most memorable moments of her career on her birthday at the Singapore Open. Starting in the qualifying draw, Tai advanced to the final, where she unfortunately lost to Saina Nehwal.
Tai continued her upward trajectory in the following years. In 2011, she made significant progress by defeating top-ranked players such as Zhu Lin and Wang Xin. She clinched her first Grand Prix title in the Australian Open and her first Superseries title in the Japan Open. Tai’s skill and determination propelled her to even greater success in the coming years.
In 2016, at the age of 22, Tai achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the world No. 1 in women’s singles. She held onto this coveted title for an astonishing 214 weeks, the longest in BWF history. Throughout her career, Tai has consistently displayed her technical prowess, agility, and strategic brilliance on the badminton court. Her ability to outmaneuver opponents with her deceptive shots and quick footwork has made her one of the most formidable players in the sport.
Tai’s achievements include winning the gold medal at the 2017 Summer Universiade and the 2018 Asian Games, and a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Additionally, she has triumphed in the BWF Superseries/World Tour Finals three times and the All England Open three times as of 2020. Tai has also been crowned Asian champion three times in 2017, 2018, and 2023.
Throughout her career, Tai has faced various challenges and hurdles, but her unwavering determination and passion for the sport have propelled her to unparalleled success. She has become an inspiration not only to aspiring badminton players but also to the broader society. Her achievements have significantly elevated the profile of Taiwanese badminton and have paved the way for future generations of Taiwanese athletes.
Tai Tzu-ying’s impact on women’s history is undeniable. As one of the most successful female badminton players of her generation, she has shattered stereotypes and proven that women can excel in sports at the highest level. Her achievements have raised the visibility and recognition of women’s badminton and have inspired countless young girls to pursue their athletic dreams.
Awards:
– World No. 1 in women’s singles for a record 214 weeks
– Gold medalist at the 2017 Summer Universiade
– Gold medalist at the 2018 Asian Games
– Three-time BWF Superseries/World Tour Finals champion
– Three-time All England Open champion
– Three-time Asian champion (2017, 2018, 2023)