Zhao Yunlei achieved a feat unmatched in badminton history during the 2012 London Olympic Games, where she secured gold medals in both the mixed and women's doubles categories. This performance established her as the first and only player to secure two gold medals within a single Olympic edition, cementing a reputation for dominance across multiple disciplines.
Early Career and Rankings
Born in Yichang, China, in 1986, Zhao pursued her education at the Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Her professional ascent began in 2009 when she attained the world number one ranking in the BWF World rankings with partner Cheng Shu. Following a shift in partnerships, she consistently returned to the top of the rankings throughout 2011 and 2012 while competing alongside Tian Qing and Zhang Nan.
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Zhao established herself as the most successful player in the BWF World Championship medal count, accumulating ten total medals by 2015. She holds the distinction of being the first player to secure double gold medals in two consecutive BWF World Championships, a milestone achieved through her performances in 2014 and 2015. Additionally, her partnership with Zhang Nan resulted in three World Championship mixed doubles titles.
Professional Impact and Retirement
Throughout her career, Zhao claimed 63 individual titles, including 42 Superseries victories. Her record includes success in the Sudirman Cup, the Uber Cup, and various Asian Games events. Following her participation in the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she earned a bronze medal, she retired from international competition. She later rejoined the Chinese national team in 2018 to serve as an assistant coach.
Fast facts
- Born: 25 August 1986, Yichang
- Olympic Gold Medals: 2 (2012)
- Olympic Bronze Medal: 1 (2016)
- Total Individual Career Titles: 63
- BWF Hall of Fame: 2022
- Education: BA, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Retirement: After 2016 Rio Olympics
Questions readers ask
What is Zhao Yunlei's most significant Olympic record?
She is the first and only badminton player to win two gold medals in the same Olympic edition, a feat she accomplished in 2012.
How many world championship medals did she win?
She holds ten World Championship medals, which made her the most successful player in the history of that competition as of 2015.
