22 November 2024 – Sponsored by SJM Resorts, S.A. (“SJM”), the “2024 CTA Tour SJM Professional Finals (Macau) and National Tennis Championships” has ignited a citywide passion for tennis since its kick-off on 18 November. Reflecting its commitment to advancing tennis and the positive influence it represents, SJM hosted an inspiring session titled “Dialogues with Outstanding Athletes” at GLP Arte, Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. This exclusive event featured Ms. Li Na, the renowned former professional tennis player and Special Olympics Global Ambassador; Ms. Guo Luoyao, the 2024 Paris Paralympics wheelchair tennis women’s doubles bronze medallist; Ms. Zhu Zhenzhen, 2024 French Open wheelchair tennis women’s singles runner-up; Mr. Wu Chun; the CTA Tour Finals Ambassador. Together, they shared their athletic journeys and life stories with approximately 80 enthusiastic students and teachers from local secondary schools, inspiring the younger generation to pursue their dreams with courage and to participate in sports.

The event was attended by Ms. Ng Ioc Leng, President of the Macau Tennis Association; Mr. Zhou Bing, Deputy General Manager of Chinese Tennis Sports of Beijing Co., Ltd.; Mr. Peng Lingchang, General Manager of Beijing CTA Tour Sport Management Co., Ltd.; Ms. Dong Fuli, coach of the Chinese wheelchair tennis team.

During the session, Li Na encouraged young attendees to remain steadfast and confident, both on and off the court. Guo Luoyao and Zhu Zhenzhen also shared their experiences of overcoming challenges in competition, motivating the youth to confront difficulties with courage. Wu Chun spoke about his own journey, inspiring students to cultivate a positive mind-set and draw motivation from sports to strive for continuous improvements. They emphasised the importance of physical strength and mental resilience while promoting a positive outlook on life, underscoring how sports transcend borders and empower individuals from all backgrounds to reach their potential.

The event was met with an enthusiastic response, as local students and teachers shared how the athletes’ stories of perseverance had a deep impact on them. Hearing first-hand accounts of triumph and resilience gave them new perspectives on facing life’s challenges and pursuing personal goals.

As the title sponsor of the CTA Tour SJM Professional Finals (Macau) and National Tennis Championships for the fourth consecutive years, not only is SJM dedicated to supporting high-calibre sports events but also in fostering the development of both elite and community sports in Macau through a series of initiatives stemming from these major events. By fostering a community rooted in physical and mental wellness and elevating competitive standards, SJM aims to continuously infuse vitality into Macau’s sports scene and work alongside the Macao SAR Government to build a thriving “City of Sports.”