The same year, she teamed-up with Yan Zi to win the bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics.

CNN: Chinese euphoria at women's double

Zheng is mostly known for her women's doubles successes partnered with Yan Zi.

CNN: Chinese wildcard Zheng Jie captures hearts

When the coaches chose two from the scores of trainees, they selected her -- along with Yan Zi, a fellow Sichuanese and long-time women's doubles partner.

CNN: Chinese wildcard Zheng Jie captures hearts