Chinese aerials skier Xu Mengtao, the women's gold medalist at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, has been making headlines since her return to the Chinese national team in April 2024. In less than a year, Xu has already secured four gold medals at the National Championships and National Cup, as well as another gold at the Asian Cup, showcasing her remarkable skills and dedication.
Speaking with CGTN Sports Scene's Shen Xiang, Xu expressed how these achievements have revitalized her confidence in aerials, an event she is both skilled at and passionate about. \\"These achievements have helped me regain confidence in aerials, the event I am both skilled at and passionate about,\\" she said.
Looking forward, Xu is set to compete in the upcoming ninth Asian Winter Games in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province. This event not only allows her to contribute to her country's proud legacy but also serves as a crucial part of her preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. \\"The Harbin Asian Winter Games is an important part of our preparation for the Milan Winter Olympics,\\" Xu added. \\"I will give it my all, and I am preparing for it step by step.\\"
The emotional moment when Xu stood atop the podium at the 2022 Winter Olympics remains a highlight of her career. Reflecting on that achievement, she shared, \\"After 28 years, from my first encounter with sports at age 4 to winning gold at the 2022 Winter Olympics, my Olympic dream had been deeply embedded in my heart. That moment was an eruption, a release. It felt like all the hard work had finally paid off.\\"
Despite her success, Xu remains humble and focused on continuous improvement. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief and resilience, often reminding herself, \\"You're truly amazing. You're excellent, hardworking, bright and tough. The future will be even more wonderful and you will provide even greater value to society.\\" With a positive mindset and unwavering determination, Xu Mengtao is poised to make even greater strides in her athletic career.
Reference(s):
Talk Sports: Olympic champion Xu Mengtao to herself – you're amazing
cgtn.com
