The year 2024 has been a remarkable journey for Chinese swimmer Tang Qianting, who has consistently delivered outstanding performances in a series of high-stakes tournaments.
Tang clinched her first world title by winning the women's 100-meter breaststroke at the World Aquatics Championships in Doha, Qatar, with a time of 1:05.27 in February. Demonstrating her relentless drive, she shattered the Asian record twice at the Chinese National Swimming Championships in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, in April.
In Shenzhen, Tang advanced to the semifinals with a time of 1:04.68 and went on to clock an impressive 1:04.39 in the final. This performance placed her just 0.26 seconds behind the world record held by USA's Lilly King and made her the first and only swimmer to break the 1:05 barrier in the event this year.
\"The victory in Doha gave me more confidence and enabled me to perform better this time in Shenzhen,\" Tang shared with China Media Group (CMG). \"Doha was just a start and a great boost for me in self-confidence. I felt the changes in my mindset after winning the world title in Doha. I became hungrier for training and felt more motivated to work harder.\"
The Chinese national swimming team is currently training in Shanghai under strict protocols as they prepare for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris. At just 20 years old, Tang is poised to be a key contender, especially in the women's 100-meter breaststroke event.
\"I'm willing to give my everything for the Olympics,\" Tang expressed. \"It has always been my dream to win an Olympic gold medal since I began to practice swimming as a child. It's something I never stop looking forward to. Winning it is the peak you can reach in this circle. I think I will enjoy my trip to Paris with a relaxed mindset. As long as I keep that state of mind, I can perform well.\"
Reference(s):
Swimmer Tang Qianting ready to be a role player for China in Paris
cgtn.com
