China's badminton superstar Chen Yufei isn’t backing down from the pressure as she prepares to defend her Olympic gold medal at Paris 2024. The 26-year-old, who triumphed at the Tokyo 2021 Games, admits she’s been stuck in a 'comfort zone' since her historic win – but now she’s laser-focused on rewriting the script. 🎯
From Gold to Growth Mindset
Chen opened up to China Media Group about her post-Olympic struggles: 'I’ve lost so many matches by just two points. It wasn’t about stamina – I needed stronger mental grit.' Her coach Luo Yigang confirms the shift: 'She wants that second gold, but big challenges could shake her focus. That’s what worries me.'
China’s Badminton Powerhouse
With four Chinese players ranking in the top eight at the Olympic qualifiers, the nation’s badminton dominance is clear. Chen will team up with He Bingjiao for Paris, as countries can only send two singles players. 🇨🇳✨
The An Se-young Factor
All eyes are on Chen’s anticipated showdown with South Korea’s World No. 1 An Se-young. Despite An’s recent injury at the Asian Games, Coach Luo warns: 'Nobody’s 100% confident against her – even at 80%, she’s dangerous.' Chen adds: 'An reads the game like a strategist. She always picks the perfect move.'
Can Chen balance her killer instinct with the joy of the game? 'Confidence + chill = gold formula,' she smiles. The Paris courts will decide. 🏟️⚡
