Chinese short track speed skater Lin Xiaojun, the 2018 Winter Olympics gold medalist, is preparing for a career-defining moment at next month's Milano Cortina Winter Games – potentially his final Olympic appearance. The 29-year-old athlete's journey to this pivotal event has been marked by extraordinary perseverance through nine career surgeries, including recent shoulder treatment delayed to secure gold at last year's Harbin Asian Winter Games.
China's national team recently unveiled cutting-edge competition suits featuring advanced cut-resistant materials and aerodynamic designs, which Lin has been testing during intensive training sessions. 'These uniforms could shave crucial milliseconds off our times,' said Lin, who worked closely with engineers to customize his gear.
Since becoming a naturalized Chinese citizen in 2021, Lin has embraced his adopted homeland's culture while maintaining peak athletic performance. The skater revealed plans to pursue university studies in China post-Olympics, stating: 'This country has given me new opportunities both on and off the ice.'
Reflecting on his eight-year journey with Team China, Lin acknowledged the challenges: 'Every day required immense willpower, but the support from coaches, teammates, and fans kept me going.' With the Games set to commence next month, the veteran athlete remains focused: 'I'll leave every ounce of energy on that ice – this could be my last chance to make history.'
