JOSEPHINE ZHAO
Country: New Zealand
Place of Birth: Auckland, New Zealand
Date of Birth: 15 December 2008
Specialist Event(s): Women’s Singles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles
Height: 167cm
Education: Macleans College
Language(s): English, Chinese
Play L or R: Right
Sporting Achievements:
- 2025 North Harbour Open NZ Tour Winner
- 2024 New Zealand U19 National Championships Finalist
- 2023 New Zealand U19 National Championships Winner
- 2023 New Zealand National Championships Finalist
Ambitions:
My immediate goal is to qualify and represent New Zealand in badminton at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games. Looking further ahead, my goal is to compete at the Olympic Games. Generally, I aim to continue developing my skills and gaining international experience.
Idols: My idols are Tai Tzu Ying and Ratchanok Intanon. They have very different styles, but both play incredibly smart and have precise skills.
Biography:
I grew up in New Zealand and started badminton at the age of nine, not knowing it would become such a big part of my life. My mum warned me early on about the sacrifices and challenges, but before I knew it, it became my dream. The journey hasn’t been easy, but I’ve been lucky to have people who’ve supported me along the way. My family played a big role, from inspiring me to making sure I had every opportunity to keep going.
Interesting Fact:
I enjoy eating and trying different kinds of food, especially when travelling for tournaments with friends.
