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Meet Zulal Tursun, a 14-year-old football prodigy from the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, whose journey from dusty Kashgar streets to China's U14 national team is straight out of a sports movie 🎬. In an interview with CGTN Sports Scene, Zulal shared how he tackled hurdles like convincing his parents to support his passion and switching positions from goalkeeper to defender—all before hitting high school!
⚽ Streetball to Stardom: Zulal’s love for football began with improvised games in his hometown. 'I’d practice for hours after school,' he recalls. His grit paid off when he earned a spot on the national youth squad after four years of relentless training.
👟 Big Dreams, Bigger Goals: Now, Zulal eyes a future with China’s senior national team. 'I want to make my country proud on the global stage,' he says, channeling the determination of athletes like Son Heung-min or Kylian Mbappé. His story is a reminder that talent + hustle = unstoppable 🔥.
🌏 Why It Matters: Zulal’s rise highlights Xinjiang’s growing role in nurturing sports talent, blending cultural diversity with athletic ambition. For young dreamers worldwide, his journey screams: 'Chase your goals, no matter where you start!'
