Harbin, China — In a surprising turn of events, Chinese freestyle skiing sensation Eileen Gu announced on social media on Tuesday that she will be withdrawing from the upcoming Harbin Asian Winter Games due to ongoing injuries. The 19-year-old athlete's decision has left fans worldwide disappointed, as many were eagerly anticipating her performance at the event slated to begin this Friday.
Gu revealed that she sustained an injury during the X Games Aspen in January, where she fell during the street-style competition of the freestyle skiing event. Despite efforts to recover in time, her situation was exacerbated by another injury sustained during recent training sessions.
\"It's with a heavy heart that I announce my withdrawal from the Harbin Asian Winter Games,\" Gu wrote on her social media accounts. \"After consulting with my medical team, we've decided that it's best for me to focus on my recovery to prevent any long-term complications.\"
The Harbin Asian Winter Games are a significant event in the Asian sporting calendar, bringing together top winter sports athletes from across the continent. Gu's absence is a notable loss for the Chinese team, as she has been a dominant figure in freestyle skiing, capturing numerous accolades on the international stage.
Fans and fellow athletes have expressed their support for Gu, sending messages of encouragement for her swift recovery. \"Eileen is a remarkable athlete, and her health comes first,\" said one supporter. \"We look forward to seeing her back on the slopes when she's ready.\"
Gu's rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Known for her daring tricks and graceful style, she has become a role model for young athletes in China and around the world. Her decision underscores the importance of athlete health and well-being, a topic increasingly highlighted in competitive sports.
The Harbin Asian Winter Games will proceed without Gu, but her influence on the sport remains undeniable. As she focuses on healing, fans remain hopeful for her return in future competitions.
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Eileen Gu withdraws from Harbin Asian Winter Games due to injuries
cgtn.com
