As the Paris 2024 Olympic Games approach, Chinese sprinter Xie Zhenye is on the cusp of making history. Turning 31 this August, Xie is set to become the first Chinese sprinter to compete in four consecutive Summer Olympics, having secured qualification for both the men’s 200-meter and the men’s 4×100-meter relay events.
Xie’s journey is a tale of resilience and triumph over adversity. At 16, a serious hip fracture threatened to derail his budding athletic career. His coach even suggested he return to school, doubting his future in sprinting. Defying the odds, just a year later, Xie clinched the gold medal in the men’s 200-meter at the Youth Summer Olympics in Singapore, clocking in at 21.22 seconds.
The pattern of setbacks followed by remarkable comebacks has been a constant theme in Xie’s career. Before his 19th birthday, he made his Olympic debut in London in 2012. At 21, he broke the national record in the men’s 200-meter and set a new Asian record in the men’s 4×100-meter relay. His performance at the World Championships in Beijing in 2015 earned China a silver medal in the relay, marking the best Asian performance in the event.
Yet, success has often been interlaced with disappointment. Xie faced challenges when he didn’t advance to the men’s 200-meter final at the 2014 Asian Games and the 2015 World Championships. Undeterred, he set a new Chinese record in the men’s 100-meter with a time of 9.97 seconds in 2017. The following year, he broke the Asian record in the men’s 200-meter, finishing in 19.88 seconds. However, an injury forced him to withdraw from the 2018 Asian Games.
Now, with Paris 2024 on the horizon, Xie approaches the Games with a renewed perspective. “I just want to enjoy the race,” he says, reflecting on his journey. His story resonates with athletes and fans alike, illustrating the relentless pursuit of excellence despite the hurdles along the way.
Xie’s determination not only exemplifies personal grit but also signifies the rising prominence of Chinese athletes on the global stage. As he prepares for his fourth Olympic appearance, the world watches in anticipation, hopeful for new records and inspired by his unwavering spirit.
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Chinese sprinter Xie Zhenye just wants to enjoy race at Paris 2024
cgtn.com
