At 58 years old, former Chinese table tennis player Zeng Zhiying is set to make her Olympic debut representing Chile at the 2024 Paris Games. In an exclusive interview with CGTN Sports Scene’s Greg Laffradi, the inspirational veteran shared her excitement and the journey that led her back to the competitive arena.
“Very exciting. This is my first Olympics, so I feel very happy and excited,” Zeng exclaimed. “On the Olympic stage, I just want to show my real abilities. The athletes at the Olympics are all excellent, so I will accomplish my task by just showing what I’ve got.”
Zeng became a professional player at 16, competing fiercely in the Chinese national team, renowned for its depth of talent in table tennis. Despite her skill, the intense competition meant she never had the opportunity to participate in the Olympic Games while representing the Chinese mainland.
Retiring as a player at the age of 20, Zeng was invited to Chile to serve as a table tennis coach. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she picked up her paddle once more and, remarkably, was selected for the Chilean national team at 57.
“I usually train from Monday to Friday and play competitive matches on Saturday,” Zeng said. “I train for half the day. I want to train from morning to evening, but my body doesn’t allow it. In order to stay fit without injuries, I train around three hours a day and play both amateur and professional matches.”
When asked about her future in the sport, Zeng remained passionate. “Depending on my physical level, if I can get through the trials and be selected, I will definitely continue playing table tennis. If I’m not selected, I’ll still play amateur matches. The reason why I take part in competitions is that I’m happy to play them and put pressure on myself, so I’ll continue playing.”
Zeng’s story is a testament to her unwavering dedication and love for table tennis. Her journey from a young professional in the Chinese mainland to an Olympian representing Chile inspires athletes worldwide, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one’s passion.
As she prepares to step onto the Olympic stage for the first time, Zeng Zhiying embodies the spirit of perseverance and the unifying power of sports.
Reference(s):
Former Chinese paddler excited to make Olympic debut at 58 for Chile
cgtn.com
