Li nominated to join global greats

Chinese legend being considered for enshrinement in Hall of Fame

China's two-time major champion Li Na has been nominated for induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2019－the sport's ultimate honor.

The ITHF, located in Newport, Rhode Island, is committed to preserving and promoting tennis history and celebrating the sport's best players from around the world. The hall also operates an extensive tennis museum and hosts celebratory events in honor of its inductees.

Li is the first Chinese player to be nominated for the honor and is among eight former players being considered for the class of 2019. The others are Jonas Bjorkman of Sweden, Sergi Bruguera of Spain, Goran Ivanisevic of Croatia, Yevgeny Kafelnikov of Russia, Conchita Martinez of Spain, Thomas Muster of Austria, and Mary Pierce of France.

"I'm very honored to be nominated for the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Tennis history in China is still young, and it's been a privilege for me to be part of the sport becoming so popular in my home country," said Li.

"I love seeing so many young people get involved, and to see more of a presence from China on the tours. To be nominated alongside some of the best players in tennis history is a great honor for me and my country. I'm very proud and grateful."

China's first true tennis star, Li won two Grand Slam singles titles, reached a ranking high of world No 2 and dramatically increased interest levels in the sport in her native country.

Her first major title came at the 2011 French Open, where she defeated Petra Kvitova, Victoria Azarenka, Maria Sharapova and defending champion Francesa Schiavone en route to the trophy. In 2014, she won the Australian Open, where she was a finalist in 2011 and 2013.

Li won nine titles in all and compiled a singles record of 503-188. She was ranked among the world's top five players for 98 weeks.

Her career accomplishments, combined with her engaging personality, resulted in a transformative effect on the popularity of tennis in China. More than 116 million TV viewers tuned in to watch her French Open victory, and participation in the sport has soared since her playing days.

"We are thrilled to recognize Li Na with this great honor," said ITHF president Stan Smith.

"She is an accomplished champion and has been an outstanding ambassador for tennis in China and around the world. She has inspired a generation of future champions, and is most deserving of this nomination."

Now that the ballot has been set for the Class of 2019, it will go before the ITHF Voting Group, which consists of tennis journalists, historians, and Hall of Famers to determine who among the nominees is elected.

New for 2019, the election process will also feature a fan vote, in which the public are encouraged to voice their opinions.

The results of fan balloting will be announced at the conclusion of the voting period in early October. The overall results and the complete induction class for the ceremony on July 20, 2019 will be announced at the Australian Open in early January.

Since 1955, the ITHF has honored 254 greats from 23 nations, including Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, John McEnroe, Bjorn Borg, Kim Clijsters and Martina Hingis.