Badminton superstar Huang Yaqiong, whose lightning-quick smashes earned her Olympic gold 🥇 and global fame, has officially retired from the Chinese national team. The 30-year-old announced her decision on social media, calling it a 'bittersweet moment' after years of representing her country.
'My body still feels strong, but years of intense training have left their mark,' Huang shared, referencing recurring injuries. 'I want to step aside while I can still contribute to badminton in new ways.'
Huang leaves an unmatched legacy: She and mixed doubles partner Zheng Siwei dominated the Paris Olympics without losing a single set 🤯, avenging their silver medal finish at Tokyo 2020. The duo also clinched three straight BWF World Tour Finals titles – their final victory coming just weeks ago!
While fans mourn the end of an era 🎭, Huang promises she's not leaving the sport entirely. 'Badminton is my life's passion,' she wrote. 'Stay tuned for my next chapter!' 🔜
Zheng, her longtime partner, retired from international play last November – making their latest triumph an emotional farewell performance 💫.
