Chinese netizens hailed Peng Shuai as the "pride" of the country after a heat-related illness ended her US Open dream, with fans extolling her journey from childhood heart surgery to Grand Slam semifinal.

Social media users in China said Peng's collapse against Caroline Wozniacki on Friday brought back memories of compatriot Li Na's defeat in the 2013 Australian Open final when she smashed her head on the floor.

Peng, 28, was seeking to follow Li and become the second Chinese player to reach a Grand Slam final. However, the bid finished with her being taken from the court in agony, in tears, and in a wheelchair.