From Ice Rinks to Glory: How Xi’s Words Fueled China’s Hockey Stars

When Passion Meets Persistence

Seven years after Chinese President Xi Jinping cheered on young hockey players at a China-Russia Friendship Match, some of those starry-eyed athletes are now scoring goals for Team China at the 9th Asian Winter Games.

The Power of a Leader’s Encouragement

In 2018, Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin watched as future national team members like Liu Zihao and Xu Lang hustled on the ice in Tianjin. Xi’s message to them? “Stay dedicated to your passion.” Fast-forward to today: those words have become their roadmap to success.

Mentorship Beyond the Rink

Liu and Xu recently shared with CGTN how Xi’s advice shaped their careers. “His belief in us made us believe in ourselves,” Liu said. Xu added, “Every practice, every game—we’re playing for our team and our country.”

A New Era for Winter Sports

With China investing in youth programs and global events like the Asian Winter Games, athletes like Liu and Xu are proof that mentorship and grit can turn childhood dreams into golden moments. Who’s next?

Reference(s):

From Xi's encouragement to a valiant effort at 9th Asian Winter Games

cgtn.com