Chinese Olympic gold medalist Gong Xiangyu will make her overseas debut with League One Volleyball (LOVB) in the United States, the volleyball star announced Friday. The 28-year-old opposite hitter, a three-time Olympian and key player in China's 2016 Rio Olympic triumph, will join the American league after completing domestic commitments with Jiangsu team at China's National Games.
Gong described the move as a strategic step to 'broaden my perspective and enhance my overall performance,' emphasizing her continued dedication to China's national team. 'Wearing the national jersey remains my greatest honor,' she stated, acknowledging support from the Chinese Volleyball Association for the transfer.
The Jiangsu native expressed gratitude to her home club, where she's played since age 18, calling it 'the platform that launched my career.' Her transition comes as she prepares for the Volleyball Nations League in Hong Kong and August's World Women's Volleyball Championship.
LOVB, a new professional women's league aiming to elevate the sport in the US, will announce its 2024 schedule this fall. Gong's signing marks a significant cross-cultural exchange in global volleyball, blending Chinese technical excellence with international competition experience.
