Who says age can stop you? 🏓✨ At 58, Zeng Zhiying is proving that passion knows no limits! The former Chinese table tennis player is all set to make her Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Games, representing Chile. 🇨🇱
In an exclusive chat with CGTN Sports Scene's Greg Laffradi, Zeng couldn't hide her excitement: \"Very exciting. This is my first Olympics, so I feel very happy and excited,\" she shared with a grin. \"On the Olympic stage, I just wanted to show my real abilities. The athletes at the Olympics are all very excellent, so I accomplished my task by just showing what I've got.\"
Zeng began her table tennis journey at the age of 16 on the Chinese mainland, where the competition is fierce due to a deep pool of talent. Despite her skills, she didn't get the chance to play at the Olympics back then. But destiny had other plans!
After retiring at 20, Zeng moved to Chile to coach. Fast forward to the COVID-19 pandemic, she picked up her paddle again and at 57, was selected for the Chilean national team! Talk about a comeback! 🎉
\"I usually train from Monday to Friday and play competitive matches on Saturday,\" Zeng said. \"I train for half the day. I want to train from morning to evening, but my body doesn't allow it. In order to stay fit without injuries, I train around three hours a day and play both amateur and professional matches.\"
Her philosophy? Age is just a number! \"There's no difference among ages in competitions. You'll face whoever you're against, no matter the age. I don't feel I'm much older than them. I feel we are the same as competitors. We are equal on either side of the table,\" she confidently stated.
Zeng's story is a testament to perseverance and passion. She's not just competing; she's inspiring a generation to chase their dreams regardless of the odds. 🌟
\"Depending on my physical level, if I can get through the trials and be selected, I will definitely continue playing table tennis. If I'm not selected, I'll still play amateur matches. The reason why I take part in competitions is that I'm happy to play them and put pressure on myself, so I'll continue playing,\" she said, embodying true sportsmanship.
As we gear up for the Paris 2024 Olympics, keep an eye out for Zeng Zhiying—a true inspiration proving that it's never too late to fulfill your dreams! 🥇
Reference(s):
Former Chinese paddler excited to make Olympic debut at 58 for Chile
cgtn.com
