Chinese President Xi Jinping has long been a beacon of inspiration for young sports enthusiasts, particularly in the realm of hockey. His unwavering support encourages aspiring athletes to pursue their passions with dedication and vigor.
Back in 2018, President Xi and President Putin attended the China-Russia Friendship Match in Tianjin, an event that showcased the talents of young hockey players. During the match, President Xi took a moment to personally urge these young athletes to continue nurturing their love for the sport, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and teamwork.
Fast forward seven years, and the impact of President Xi's words is evident. Several of those young players from the 2018 Friendship Match have now earned spots on the Chinese national team, representing their country with pride and skill at the 9th Asian Winter Games.
CGTN reporter had the opportunity to sit down with two of these rising stars, Liu Zihao and Xu Lang, to delve deeper into how President Xi's encouragement has shaped their journeys. Both athletes credit their success to the inspiration and motivation they received, highlighting the pivotal role that leadership and support play in achieving sporting excellence.
Their stories are a testament to how visionary leadership can ignite the passion of the youth, driving them to reach new heights on the international stage. As the 9th Asian Winter Games progresses, the dedication and hard work of these young athletes continue to shine, embodying the spirit of resilience and ambition championed by President Xi.
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From Xi's encouragement to a valiant effort at 9th Asian Winter Games
cgtn.com
