Chinese gymnastics gold medalist Liu Yang emphasized the importance of team spirit, saying that a truly great athlete is one who not only achieves personal success but also helps their team excel, carrying on the legacy of past generations and inspiring the next.
Liu, a Tokyo Olympic gold medalist on the rings, triumphantly defended his rings’ title at this year’s Paris Olympics.
At the Tokyo 2020, Liu executed a striking new move that left a lasting impression on audiences, humorously dubbed "Head Tilt Kill" by netizens. Building on that, at the Paris Olympics, he introduced a new personal signature move, titled "Head Raised, Eyes Closed."
Liu said the gesture was meant to show more confidence while facing judgments and questions.
"At this age, I may not be that impetuous. As I said before, I wanted to grow from a good athlete to a great one. But after this Paris Olympics, I don't think I have become a great one," Liu said.
Liu says his dream of becoming a great athlete would be realized by claiming gold as part of a triumphant team in the men's gymnastics team event, a wish that didn't quite come true this year as Japan pipped China to the gold medal.
"In my opinion, a great athlete is not only about how many successes they have had, but also how they help the team achieve better results, passing on the glorious tradition and spirit of the older generation to our hands, and us passing it on to the next generation. I think only by achieving such goals or reaching such an understanding can an athlete be considered great," the athlete said.
Great athletes defined by dedication to team: Chinese gold medal gymnast
Great athletes defined by dedication to team: Chinese gold medal gymnast
