In an exclusive interview with CGTN's Talk Sports, Chinese short track speed skater Sun Long opened up about his journey from Olympic disappointment to renewed determination as he prepares for the upcoming Harbin Asian Winter Games and the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Sun, the reigning world champion in the men's 1,500 meters, faced a significant setback during his Olympic debut at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games. A misstep in the men's 5,000-meter relay final led to a fall, dashing China's hopes for a podium finish. Overcome with disappointment, Sun tearfully apologized on social media, posting six heartfelt \"Sorry\" messages.
Confronted with external criticism regarding his experience and mental resilience, Sun entered a challenging period in his career. However, alongside his coach, he used this time to deeply analyze the issues that arose during the competition. Through meticulous adjustments to his training regimen, Sun transformed his performance, marking a remarkable evolution in his athletic journey.
During the interview, the 24-year-old athlete reflected on his recent successes on the ISU World Tour and expressed pride in the teamwork showcased by China in relay races. He shared memorable moments with the national team and spoke candidly about the profound influence of his parents on his career. Sun also conveyed his unwavering determination to achieve his future aspirations.
As the Harbin Asian Winter Games approach, Sun Long's story stands as a testament to resilience and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.
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Exclusive: Speed skater Sun Long opens up ahead of Asian Winter Games
cgtn.com
