Chinese hurdler Wu Yanni, who clinched the silver medal in the women’s 100-meter hurdles at the 31st FISU World University Games in Chengdu, southwest China’s Sichuan Province in 2023, is gearing up for her Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. In an exclusive interview with CGTN Sports Scene’s Zhu Mandan, Wu shared her aspirations and the journey that brought her to this pivotal moment in her athletic career.
“I hope to break the stereotype that most people have about track and field athletes,” Wu expressed passionately. “People tend to think that we are short-haired, don’t do any make-up, and that we are just ordinary athletes. I think now, in the 21st century, athletes should be able to show their individuality, show the world a different kind of beauty in the sport of track and field. So maybe I always look a bit overdressed on the track.”
Wu’s remarkable performance in Chengdu, where she completed the race in 12.76 seconds, sealed her qualification for the Paris Olympics. Reflecting on this achievement, she revealed her initial surprise and subsequent confidence.
“I really didn’t expect to do that. I entered the race thinking that maybe I could qualify for the Olympics this time,” Wu admitted. “But I really didn’t expect to actually do it. So when I did it, I was really, really excited. But afterwards, when I think about it more, I don’t feel the same excitement. Because I, Wu Yanni, do have the ability to do it.”
For Wu, sprinting is more than a profession; it’s a path to personal growth. She acknowledges the challenges athletes face and embraces them as opportunities to mature.
“Defeats and injuries are what happen to athletes,” she reflected. “There’s no way to avoid it. What is really difficult is to live through that and grow from that.”
As she prepares for Paris 2024, Wu Yanni hopes to not only excel on the track but also to inspire others by showcasing the blend of athleticism and individuality. Her journey reflects the evolving image of modern athletes who break molds and embody multifaceted identities.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
