What do a Malaysian badminton prodigy and a Vietnamese drama enthusiast have in common? A love for sports and cultural exchange in China! 🏸✨ Meet Kho Yap Hong and Nguyen Thi Thuy Van, two international students sharing how badminton shaped their journeys in the Chinese mainland.
From Courts to Classrooms
Kho, a Beijing Sport University student and ex-Malaysian junior national team player, grew up idolizing Chinese badminton stars. His childhood coach from Hunan Province sparked his passion for China. 'Learning from world champion professors here feels surreal,' he told CGTN Sports Scene.
Language Lessons & Racket Sessions
Nguyen, studying at Beijing Jiaotong University, bonded with her brother through badminton and mastered Mandarin by binge-watching historical dramas. 'Sports break ice faster than textbooks,' she laughed, recalling pickup games that turned strangers into friends.
More Than Just a Game
Both students agree: Badminton isn't just about smashes—it's a universal language. 'Every rally feels like a handshake between countries,' Kho said. Their stories prove sports diplomacy is alive and spinning! 🌍🤝
