Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen shines again on Vogue China's December 2025 cover, showcasing three distinct versions. Despite an elbow injury disrupting her 2025 season, she remains a highly marketable athlete, earning $19 million in sponsorship deals and ranking fifth among female athletes globally.
This isn't her first time on the cover. More than a year ago, she made history as the first athlete, male or female, to grace Vogue China's pages. This time, she outdid herself with nearly a half-dozen unique covers and captivating behind-the-scenes content titled 'A Rhythm of Her Own'.
Beyond the traditional modeling, Zheng's photoshoot featured playful elements, including pumpkins as dumbbells, candy rings, and a giant tennis racket in a bathtub, showcasing her whimsical side. Despite her injury, Zheng's on-court rhythm took a hit. She underwent surgery after Wimbledon and then took a break from competition, only returning briefly at the China Open before ending her season.
However, this setback allowed her to appreciate the 'slowness' of recovery and focus on building her 'high-rise of life'. In an interview, she emphasized the importance of self-arrangement, stating, 'A good professional player should know how to arrange their life.' She encourages taking control of your path, choosing competitions and allocating time and energy accordingly.
Despite her injury, Zheng's star continues to rise. She earned $19 million in sponsorship deals in 2025, solidifying her position as one of the world's most marketable athletes, ranking fifth among female athletes globally, according to Sportico.
