A Historic Achievement for Ni Xia Lian
On Monday, Luxembourg’s Ni Xia Lian, born on July 4, 1963, made history as the oldest competitor to win a desk tennis match on the Olympics. She triumphed over 31-yr-old Turkish player Sibel Altinkaya, putting a brand new benchmark in the sport. However, simply days later, on Wednesday, she have become the oldest participant to lose an Olympic suit, falling to the Chinese global and Olympic silver medalist, Sun Yingsha.
Facing the World No. 1
Sun Yingsha, the 23-year-antique international No. 1, who additionally won group gold in Tokyo, defeated Ni in immediately video games, four-0. Despite the large age gap—Sun is 38 years younger than Ni and 9 years younger than Ni’s son—the in shape became a memorable event. When it concluded, the gang gave Ni a status ovation. The Grand Duke of Luxembourg additionally hugged her, and she stayed long after the match to speak to numerous TV crews and journalists eager to proportion her great story.
The Journey of a Remarkable Athlete
Ni Xia Lian’s journey in table tennis commenced in Shanghai whilst she turned into a touch woman. Inspired with the aid of a televised tournament, she took up the game and by way of age 16 turned into on the national crew. In 1983, she received gold medals for China at the world championships in Berlin. Impressed via the town, she moved to Germany to have a look at after graduating and eventually settled in Luxembourg, where she has lived ever when you consider that.
A Veteran at the Olympics
This was Ni’s 6th Olympics, and Luxembourg honored her by using deciding on her as the flag bearer for the opening ceremony. Known affectionately as “Auntie” among more youthful gamers, she is cherished in both Luxembourg and China. Despite her nerves about going through Sun, Ni established her enduring ability and strategy, nearly taking the 1/3 sport with more than one beautiful backhands earlier than dropping it thirteen-11.
Unique Playing Style
Ni’s gambling fashion is extraordinary. She uses a left-exceeded pen grip and employs superior techniques to put depraved spins on the ball, making it whip, dip, spurt, and curve unpredictably. “My fashion is old style, but my approach is superior,” she explained. Ni’s strategic play compensates for any bodily obstacles, showcasing her capability to conform and enhance continuously.
Inspirational Legacy
Ni’s legacy extends beyond her personal achievements. She has stimulated different athletes, consisting of her former Chinese teammate Zhiying Zeng. After 3 a long time faraway from the sport, Zeng again to desk tennis for the duration of the pandemic, pushed by a preference for exercise and social interplay. Seeing Ni compete reignited Zeng’s ardour, main her to dream of qualifying for the countrywide group.
An Iconic Figure in Table Tennis
Ni’s story is considered one of resilience, adaptability, and suggestion. Her ability to compete at the highest stage at 61 years vintage is a testomony to her determination and love for the game. She hopes her instance suggests the arena that age is not any barrier to participation and excellence in sports.
Conclusion
Ni Xia Lian’s performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics could be remembered not handiest for her ancient victories and losses however additionally for her sportsmanship and the foundation she gives to athletes of all ages. Her adventure from a younger woman in Shanghai to a celebrated Olympian in Luxembourg is a super story of perseverance and ardour.