Zhang Shuai
Tennis player and Australian Open quarterfinalist
A prominent tennis player from China, achieved significant success on the WTA Tour. Gained attention for reaching the quarterfinals at the 2016 Australian Open. Her career includes notable victories in singles and doubles competitions, contributing to her reputation in women's tennis. Represented China in various international tournaments, including the Olympics. Improved ranking significantly throughout her career, marking a notable presence in the sport.
Reached quarterfinals at 2016 Australian Open
Won multiple WTA doubles titles
Competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics
Other People Born on January 21st
Albert Lavignac
French music scholar and educator
Born
January 21st, 1846 179 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 70 years old
Contributed significantly to musicology and education in France. Authored several important works on music theory and history. Played a key role in the establishment of music education programs. Served as a professor at the Paris Conservatoire, influencing generations of musicians and scholars.
Continue ReadingJohn Batman
Australian entrepreneur and explorer
Born
January 21st, 1801 224 years ago
Died
1839 186 years ago — 38 years old
An entrepreneur and explorer, contributed to the establishment of the city of Melbourne. Arrived in Van Diemen's Land (Tasmania) in 1830 and engaged in agricultural activities. Initiated negotiations with the Aboriginal people to acquire land in the Port Phillip area, leading to the founding of Melbourne in 1835. His ventures extended to sheep farming and he played a significant role in the early settlement of Victoria.
Continue ReadingRolands Freimanis
Latvian Basketball Player
Born
January 21st, 1988 37 years ago
Born in Latvia, a basketball player competed at professional levels and played for the Latvian national team. Freimanis participated in multiple international tournaments, including the FIBA EuroBasket and the Baltic Basketball League. Over his career, contributions to various clubs in the Latvian basketball league included significant performances that aided team successes. His playing style and skillset contributed to the development of basketball in Latvia.
Continue ReadingJohn Porter
Canadian Ice Hockey Player
Born
January 21st, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 93 years old
Played as a left winger in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the New York Americans. Competed in the NHL during the 1920s and 1930s. Contributed to the team effort in multiple seasons, showcasing skill in both scoring and playmaking. Retired from professional play with a reputation as a solid competitor in the league.
Continue ReadingVanessa Hessler
Model and actress, featured in films
Born
January 21st, 1988 37 years ago
Born to an Italian father and an American mother, grew up in Rome. Entered the modeling industry at a young age, gaining recognition for work in fashion. Transitioned to acting, with significant roles in the Italian film 'I 2 soliti idioti' and the television series 'Il segreto'. Established a career in both modeling and acting, showcasing talents internationally.
Continue ReadingÁngel Mena
Ecuadorian footballer and forward
Born
January 21st, 1988 37 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Began career in Ecuador and gained recognition for performances in the Ecuadorian Serie A. Transferred to clubs in Mexico, contributing to the success of teams competing in Liga MX. Also represented the Ecuador national team in various international competitions, showcasing talent on the global stage.
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