An Incredible Privilege": Xinyu Wang Ready to Transcend China Against Italian Champions

Italy is the favorite, but China will have the advantage of heart: Xinyu Wang, determined to shine at home, dreams of toppling Paolini and her teammates in a quarter-final already full of promise.

Between the US Open and the start of the Asian tour, the 2025 Billie Jean King Cup will conclude this week with the Final 8 held in Shenzhen.

Without much fanfare, the women's team competition will start tomorrow with the first quarter-final opposing Italy and China.

A tricky encounter for the reigning Italian titleholders, even though Qinwen Zheng, China's number one, is absent this year. In the absence of their leader, Xinyu Wang will take over.

The world's 34th player spoke about the challenge ahead in a press conference and her motivation to play in her hometown:

"I have already played against Paolini. Both matches were tough. She has been very strong for three years with two Grand Slam finals. Playing her here is completely different. It's the first time I'm playing this final phase, and I'm also playing at home.

It was very stressful before (representing China), but now I see it as a privilege. It's not every day that you play for your country in front of your crowd; I think it's something incredible.

Of course, it's going to be more difficult for us because they are great and very talented players. On our side, we're playing at home and have no expectations, so we're going to give it our all.