TEHRAN – China International Press Communications Centre (CIPCC) on Saturday offered foreign journalists a unique opportunity to explore Beijing’s iconic national tennis centre, home to the famous diamond court.
All reporters are participating in a media exchange program sponsored by the CIPCC. The tour emphasizes China’s commitment to fusing global dialogue through shared passions, combining sports education with cultural exchange.
Famous for hosting the China Open, the National Tennis Centre is a vast complex that marries cutting edge design and functional elegance. As journalists toured the facility, they marveled at the futuristic architecture of Diamond Court.
The highlight of the day was a tennis clinic led by Wen Yuan, director of the RSPA China Education Region and former member of the tennis team. In a career that was immersed in both competitive play and coaching, Wen distilled the essence of tennis into accessible lessons.
Her teaching style combined technical rigor with warmth, encouraging even first-time players to swing with confidence. Participants were paired for a practice rally with a laugh that interrupted the sound of the ball bouncing across the court. Wen’s passion for sports is contagious and has transformed the session into more than just a lesson. It became a celebration of movement, strategy and friendship.
When they stepped into Diamond Court, participants recalled its storied history. This sacred ground hosts some of the most iconic figures, including Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, and Novak Djokovic.
It was a humble experience to stand where these legends competed. For journalists, the opportunity to volley on the same stage was surreal and exciting, as they are more used to reporting on sports than playing sports.
The CIPCC’s initiative to include this tour in the exchange program highlights its mission to deepen understanding of intercultural cultures through shared experiences. Sports as a universal language transcends political and linguistic barriers and creates a common foundation for dialogue. The National Tennis Centre Tour illustrate this spirit, combining education, physical activity and historical context into a single enrichment event.
Participants not only improved their backhands, but also left deeper insight into Chinese sports culture. The national investment in world-class facilities such as the National Tennis Center reflects athletic excellence and broader commitment to foster international collaboration.
The CIPCC’s dedication to creating meaningful interactions between foreign journalists and Chinese institutions is invaluable. These days remind us that journalism is not just about observing, but about participation, learning, and connection.
CIPCC’s media exchange initiative continues to prove that cultural exchange is not limited to executive rooms and banquet halls. Sometimes it unfolds on tennis courts, with rackets in hand, legendary ghosts cheering you on.