Olympic badminton champion Huang Yaqiong has announced her retirement from China’s national team, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in her sporting career.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media on Wednesday, Huang revealed that she has submitted her resignation to the national team. “I’ve been greeted with countless encouragement from everyone, hoping that I could continue my career,” she wrote. “But actually, during the run-up to the Paris Olympics, I’d already decided that it would be my last one.”
Despite her current form and physical ability to compete, Huang explained that accumulated injuries and increasing age have influenced her confidence in continuing at the elite level. “The accumulated injuries over the years combined with the increasing age have made me lack confidence to continue shouldering the mission of winning glory for the country,” she added.
Together with her partner Zheng Siwei, Huang clinched the mixed doubles gold at the Paris Olympics, finishing the tournament with an impeccable 6-0 record without dropping a single set. Their dominance on the court was a testament to their synergy and skill.
Zheng Siwei also announced his retirement from international competition last November. In their final international appearance, the duo secured their third consecutive championship at the year-end Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour Finals just last month.
Although stepping away from the national team, Huang emphasized that her connection to badminton remains unbroken. She expressed her intent to contribute to the sport in new ways. “Badminton is my lifelong pursuit, and I’m willing to give it my all,” she affirmed.
Huang Yaqiong’s departure marks the end of an era for Chinese badminton, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and inspiration for future generations of athletes.
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Olympic badminton champion Huang to retire from Chinese national team
cgtn.com