Saudi Arabia's first Winter Olympian, Fayik Abdi, made a memorable debut at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Yabuli, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. 🏂❄️
Joining CGTN Sports Scene's Greg Laffradi in the front-line studio, Abdi shared his delightful experience at the event. Although it wasn't his first time competing in China—having participated in the Winter Olympics in Beijing three years ago—Abdi took some time to acclimate to Yabuli. But with the support of his teammates, he quickly found joy in the games. 🌟
Saudi Arabia brought a diverse team to the Games, including alpine skiers Sharifa Al-Sudairi and Farhoud Joud competing in the women's slalom, and a full team of male curlers in Harbin. 🥅⛸️
Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia is set to host the next Asian Winter Games in 2029. As a pioneer in his nation's winter sports, Abdi hopes his journey will inspire more Saudis to join the ice and snow scene, fostering the growth of winter sports back home. 🏅✨
Despite finishing 44th in the men's giant slalom at the 2022 Winter Olympics and not completing the men's slalom in Yabuli, Abdi remains determined to secure his spot at next year's Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. His resilience is a shining example for aspiring athletes everywhere! 💪🏽🔥
Reference(s):
Saudi flagbearer Fayik Abdi praises 9th Asian Winter Games in China
cgtn.com
