Lee Ye-won: From Junior Tennis to Aspiring Sports Announcer

Lee Ye-won, a third-year student at JoongAng Girls’ High School, has charted a course that extends beyond the tennis court. While achieving success in international junior competitions, she is simultaneously preparing for a future as a sports announcer, demonstrating a clear vision and dedicated operate ethic.

International Junior Successes

Last February was a busy period for Lee Ye-won, encompassing junior competitions in Nairobi, Kenya, and Colombo, Sri Lanka. She achieved consistent results in doubles, including finishing as the runner-up at the J30 Kenya tournament, reaching the semifinals of the J60 Kenya event, and again finishing as the runner-up at the J30 Colombo tournament. In singles, she reached the quarterfinals and semifinals during the Kenyan series.

Starting the season ranked 1,423rd, Lee Ye-won climbed approximately 400 places in one month, reaching a ranking of 1,021st.

Challenges and Determination

Despite her successes, Lee Ye-won remained driven for further improvement. “Still, I wasn’t satisfied. I chose Kenya and Sri Lanka since I wanted to win, but I didn’t win. Those were tournaments that left me with a lot of disappointment,” she stated.

Her decision to compete in Kenya and Sri Lanka was strategic, aiming to gain ITF ranking points before entering college. The journey wasn’t without its difficulties, including experiencing altitude sickness and dietary challenges. She brought a month’s supply of food with her, supported by her mother who accompanied her on the tour.

A Clear Vision for the Future

Lee Ye-won possesses a distinct ambition that extends beyond athletic achievement. She aspires to grow a sports announcer and plans to study journalism in college. “I like speaking and presenting. I wish to become a sports announcer. I want to study the field of journalism as a college student. I grasp the competition is very fierce, but I will try to become a sports announcer by taking advantage of the characteristics of my background as an athlete.”

Balancing Athletics and Academics

Lee Ye-won dedicates at least two hours daily to studying, with a particular fondness for Korean. While acknowledging a dislike for English, she is determined to improve her skills, aiming to reach a level 3 or 4 proficiency. Her peers recognize her academic commitment, noting she is among the best students at her school.

Goals for 2025

Looking ahead, Lee Ye-won has set both athletic and academic goals. “Before I graduate, I really want to win at least once, whether it’s a domestic or international competition. My goal as an athlete this year is to win, and I also want to study better so I can definitely enter the university of my choice next year.”

Lee Ye-won’s clear vision and proactive approach position her for success in both her athletic pursuits and her future career. Her dedication to achieving her goals makes her a promising talent to watch.