Wu Yanni, a rising star in track and field, recently secured the silver medal in the women's 100-meter hurdles at the 31st Federation of International University Sports (FISU) World University Games held in Chengdu, Sichuan Province. Her impressive performance, clocking in at 12.76 seconds, not only earned her a podium finish but also paved the way for her debut at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
In an interview with CGTN Sports Scene's Zhu Mandan, Wu shared her aspirations and the motivations driving her journey. \"I hope to break the stereotype that most people have about track and field athletes,\" Wu expressed. She emphasized the importance of individuality and self-expression in sports, stating, \"In the 21st century, athletes should be able to show their individuality, show the world a different kind of beauty in the sport of track and field. So maybe I always look a bit overdressed on the track.\"
Wu's unexpected qualification for the Olympics came as a pleasant surprise. \"I really didn't expect to do that. I entered the race thinking that maybe I could qualify for the Olympics this time,\" she recalled. The initial excitement was overwhelming, but as she reflected on her achievement, Wu felt a deep sense of capability and determination.
Beyond the track, Wu views sprinting as a path to personal growth and maturity. She acknowledged the inevitable challenges athletes face, such as defeats and injuries, saying, \"There's no way to avoid it. What is really difficult, is to live through that and grow from that.\" Her resilience and commitment to overcoming obstacles are testament to her potential both on and off the track.
As Wu Yanni prepares for her Olympic debut, her story resonates with young global citizens and sports enthusiasts worldwide. Her dedication, combined with her desire to redefine athleticism, makes her a role model for aspiring athletes and changemakers alike.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
