Roger Federer & On Running Celebrate Chinese Tennis Legacy with New Shanghai Courts – Urgent Breaking News!
Shanghai, October 8, 2025 – In a heartwarming display of dedication to the future of tennis, sporting legend Roger Federer and Swiss performance brand On Running today unveiled newly renovated tennis courts at the Shanghai Xuhui District No. 1 Youth Amateur Sports School. This isn’t just about a fresh surface; it’s a tribute to Liu Yunzhi, a largely unsung hero who has spent 27 years building and maintaining over 4,000 professional tennis courts across China, and a powerful investment in the next generation of Chinese players. This is a developing story, optimized for Google News and SEO to bring you the latest updates instantly.
Honoring the Architect of Chinese Tennis: Liu Yunzhi
While the world often celebrates the stars on the court, today’s event shone a spotlight on the individuals who build the foundations for success. Liu Yunzhi, 83, has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of Chinese tennis, transitioning from a player to a referee and ultimately becoming a leading figure in court engineering. Her meticulous work didn’t just improve playing conditions; she literally colored the game, creating the iconic “Shanghai Purple” and “Shanghai Green” surfaces used at the prestigious Shanghai Masters tournament. On Running, recognizing her profound impact, partnered with Liu Yunzhi’s team to upgrade the facilities at the youth sports school, providing a world-class training environment.
Figure 1: Opening ceremony of the tennis court of Xuhui Junior Sports School
Beyond the Highlight Reel: On’s Commitment to Grassroots Development
Cai Yijia, General Manager of On Asia Pacific, emphasized the brand’s philosophy: “The true meaning of sports lies not only in the highlight moments on the court, but also in the efforts behind the scenes.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates On’s “Salute to Every Game” initiative, now in its second year in China. The company, founded in the Swiss Alps in 2010, isn’t simply selling shoes and apparel; they’re investing in the entire ecosystem of the sport, from elite athletes to aspiring young players. Their innovative CloudTec® technology and commitment to sustainable practices are attracting a global fanbase, but their dedication to community development is what truly sets them apart.
Figure 2: The renovated tennis court of Xuhui Junior Sports School
Federer’s Inspiration: A Message for Future Champions
The event wasn’t just a ceremonial unveiling. Roger Federer himself took to the court, hitting the “first ball” and leaving his autograph as a lasting mark of inspiration. He then spent time interacting with the young players, offering guidance and sharing his passion for the game. Federer eloquently stated, “During the competition, the audience usually focuses on the players, but ignores the dedication and support of countless people behind the excitement.” He underscored the importance of recognizing the unsung heroes and fostering a love for tennis at the grassroots level. Liu Yunzhi echoed this sentiment, urging the young athletes to embrace the discipline and perseverance required to achieve their dreams: “Speed is not born, it is trained…dreams also require persistence.”
Figure 3: Federer and Liu Yunzhi
Picture 4: Federer left his autograph at the new stadium
Picture 5: Federer and young players compete on the new court.
Following the court unveiling, Federer engaged with enthusiastic Chinese fans at the Shanghai International Trade Plaza, creating a memorable experience for all involved. This builds on On’s previous “Salute to Every Game” event in 2024, where Federer inspired young players at the Yunnan Yexiang Tennis Club.
This initiative represents more than just a court renovation; it’s a powerful statement about the importance of investing in the future of tennis in China, recognizing the dedication of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, and inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams. The impact of this project will undoubtedly be felt for years to come, shaping the landscape of Chinese tennis and fostering a lasting legacy of excellence. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this developing story and other breaking sports news.
