The China women's volleyball team is gearing up for their 11th consecutive appearance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. After winning gold in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, the team faced challenges, notably failing to advance to the knockout phase at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games three years ago.
This year, China has been placed in a formidable group alongside the USA, Serbia, and host nation France. Hui Ruoqi, a retired member of China's championship squad from Rio 2016, expressed confidence in the team's prospects during an interview with CGTN Sports Scene's Jiang Mengxi.
\"I think there are challenges and opportunities at this year's Games,\" Hui said. \"The opponents are strong no matter if they are in the group stage or knockout phase. But I think China still has a big chance. The opening match is crucial because it's very important to get into a groove quickly and find their form. A team only needs six matches to reach the final, which is less than at previous Olympics, so this requires us to get into a groove faster, as every point is important.\"
China will kick off their campaign against the USA on July 29, following a 3-1 victory over the Americans in this year's Volleyball Nations League (VNL) held at the Maracanazinho in Rio in May.
\"Besides China – Italy, the USA and Brazil are still strong as traditional powerful teams – and there are also some dark horses like Turkey and Poland,\" Hui added. \"We have seen their performances in the Women's Nations League, so it's hard to say who will finally win the gold, or who might face big difficulties. It depends on who made fewer mistakes.\"
Reference(s):
Challenges and opportunities ahead for China in women's volleyball
cgtn.com
