China cheers Li Na's historic Australian Open win

China's Li Na runs to return a shot to Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki during their semifinal match at the Australian Open.

China is cheering Li Na’s historic Australian Open semifinals win as a historic victory for Chinese tennis.

The victory on Thursday makes Li Na the first Chinese player ever to make it into the finals of a Grand Slam event.

Li came from a set and a break down and saved a match point before beating No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark 3—6, 7—5, 6—3.

State broadcaster CCTV’s sports anchor Tong Kexin called it a historic win and praised Li’s grit in coming back from apparent defeat. Mr. Tong said the country can now claim bragging rights as having a topflight player.

Commentator Xu Chang said Li has realized the dream of all those promoting Chinese tennis, which has long struggled for recognition against competing racket sports such as badminton and table tennis.