Football has long been a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and languages. In China, football is not just a sport but a bridge that connects people from different walks of life, a sentiment deeply shared by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
President Xi Jinping has often expressed his passion for sports. In an interview, he reflected on his lifelong engagement with various athletic activities, stating, “I enjoy swimming, mountaineering, and other sports. I learned how to swim when I was four or five years old. I also like sports such as football, volleyball, basketball, tennis, martial arts, and more.“
Beyond his personal enthusiasm, President Xi actively promotes sports development in China and encourages international sports exchanges and cooperation. He views sports as a significant indicator of societal progress and a means to foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding. During a meeting with International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach on November 19, 2013, Xi emphasized that “sports can not only improve the level of people’s health but also promote the mutual understanding and friendship among people from different countries.“
In 1998, an American named Brandon Chemers arrived in Beijing from Chicago, driven by his enduring fascination with China. A fervent football enthusiast since his youth, Chemers believed immersing himself in a city’s football culture was the most effective way to connect with its people. Through football, he forged profound friendships with Beijing’s football fans, establishing an unbreakable bond not only with the city but with China as a whole.
“The stands resemble a big siheyuan (courtyard house), where everyone there is regarded as family members.” Chemers explains. “Whenever I step into the stands on match days and when the chants begin, irrespective of whether those around you are acquainted, they instinctively place a hand on your shoulder, standing next to you, shoulder to shoulder, collectively rallying behind the team.“
Football’s compelling allure lies in its ability to transcend racial and national boundaries, serving as a conduit for people to connect and communicate. Chemers’ experience epitomizes how sports can bridge cultural divides, aligning with President Xi’s vision of sports as a bridge for promoting mutual understanding.
As China continues to develop its sports infrastructure and encourages international participation, stories like Chemers’ highlight the profound impact that sports can have on fostering global friendships. In the football stands of Beijing, the spirit of unity and camaraderie thrives, reminding us all of the universal language of sport.
Reference(s):
Happiness Together: Cross-border friendship in the football stands
cgtn.com
