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Sun Long Shares His Comeback Story Ahead of Asian Winter Games
Chinese short track speed skater Sun Long, the reigning world champion in the men’s 1,500 meters, recently opened up about his journey of redemption and his hopes for the future in an exclusive interview.
At just 24 years old, Sun has already experienced the highs and lows of professional sports. During his Olympic debut at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, a misstep in the men’s 5,000-meter relay final led to a fall that cost China a spot on the podium. Overcome with disappointment, Sun tearfully apologized to fans, posting six heartfelt “Sorry” messages on social media.
“It was one of the toughest moments of my career,” Sun reflected. “I felt like I let everyone down.”
Facing criticism about his inexperience and mental toughness, Sun could have let the setback define him. Instead, he chose to turn it into motivation. Together with his coach, he meticulously analyzed what went wrong and revamped his training regimen.
“We didn’t let the disappointment break us,” he said. “We used it to fuel our determination.”
The hard work paid off. Sun has since delivered impressive performances on the ISU World Tour, showcasing not just his individual talent but also his pride in China’s teamwork in relay events. He credits his parents and the unwavering support from his teammates for helping him persevere.
“Every race is a new opportunity,” Sun shared. “I’m grateful for my family’s support and the incredible moments with my team. We’re all pushing each other to be better.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming Harbin Asian Winter Games and the 2026 Winter Olympics, Sun is focused and determined. “I want to stand on that podium,” he said. “Not just for me, but for everyone who believes in me.”
Sun Long’s journey from heartbreak to hope serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, reminding us that setbacks can be the stepping stones to future success.
