Chinese short track speed skater Sun Long is no stranger to the highs and lows of competitive sport. In an exclusive interview with CGTN's Talk Sports, the 24-year-old opened up about his Olympic setback, personal growth, and ambitions for the upcoming Harbin Asian Winter Games and the 2026 Winter Olympics.
At the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, Sun faced a challenging moment that left a lasting impact. During the men's 5,000-meter relay final, a misstep led to a fall, and China's team missed the podium. Overcome with disappointment, Sun shed tears on the ice and later expressed his remorse on social media, posting six heartfelt \"Sorry\" messages.
\"That moment was tough,\" Sun recalled. \"But every setback is a setup for a comeback.\"
Facing criticism about his inexperience and mental resilience, Sun could have let the pressure defeat him. Instead, he chose to dive deep, working closely with his coach to analyze the issues that surfaced during the competition. They meticulously revised their training approach, focusing on both physical skills and mental toughness.
And the hard work paid off. Sun has shown impressive performances on the ISU World Tour, bringing pride not only to himself but also showcasing the strength of China's teamwork in relay races. 🏅🇨🇳
\"Teamwork makes the dream work,\" Sun smiled. \"Every race is a chance to grow and learn.\"
He also reminisced about unforgettable moments with the national team and acknowledged the profound influence of his parents on his career. \"My parents have always been my biggest supporters,\" he shared. \"Their belief in me keeps me going.\"
Looking ahead, Sun is unwavering in his determination to fulfill his future aspirations. With the Harbin Asian Winter Games on the horizon and eyes set on the 2026 Winter Olympics, he's ready to take on the world.
\"Challenges are just opportunities in disguise,\" he said confidently. \"I can't wait to show what we can do.\"
From tears on the ice to a world champion in the making, Sun Long's journey is a testament to resilience and passion. Keep an eye on this rising star! ✨
Reference(s):
Exclusive: Speed skater Sun Long opens up ahead of Asian Winter Games
cgtn.com
