Brazil's table tennis sensation Hugo Calderano, 28, made history at the ITTF World Cup in Macao by becoming the first player from the Americas to win the men's singles title. Facing off against top Chinese favorites like world number one Lin Shidong and Wang Chuqin, his victory is a testament to hard work, mental resilience, and seizing crucial moments on the table. 🏓
In an exclusive chat on CGTN Sports Scene’s 'Talk Sports' with Mike Fox, Calderano opened up about the challenges of competing against the world’s best and his unwavering passion for the sport. His story reminds us that dedication and perseverance always pay off.
Beyond the competitive arena, Calderano is breaking cultural barriers by learning Chinese to enhance understanding between Brazil and the Chinese mainland. He believes that sports play a powerful role in uniting cultures, narrowing gaps, and building bridges across borders.
Looking ahead, this historic win has boosted his confidence as he prepares for the upcoming World Table Tennis Championships Finals in Doha and the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. His journey is a vibrant reminder for young fans everywhere that dreams can become reality with persistence and heart. 🎉
Even Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva joined in the celebration on social media, applauding Calderano's achievement and the support he received over the years.
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Hard work and mental resilience make Calderano a World Cup champion
cgtn.com