Ni Xialian, the remarkable table tennis player from Luxembourg, has etched her name in Olympic history. At the age of 57, she secured her ticket to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, marking her fifth appearance at the Games. But what makes her achievement truly extraordinary is that she will become the oldest table tennis player ever to compete in the Olympics.
Let’s rewind a bit. Ni Xialian’s journey began way back in 1983, when she won two world titles in Tokyo (in the singles and mixed doubles events) as part of the Republic of China’s national team. Fast forward to 2020, and she faced a daunting challenge: to be among the top three European table tennis players and qualify for Tokyo. Not an easy feat, especially considering her age and the fierce competition.
In the crucial bronze medal match at the 2019 European Games, Ni Xialian squared off against YANG Xiaoxin from Monaco, a player 25 years younger. Despite losing the first two sets, Ni Xialian’s determination kicked in. She rallied, winning the next three sets and securing her ticket to Tokyo. It was a historic moment—the oldest table tennis player ever to qualify for the Olympics.
Experience played a role, but Ni Xialian emphasizes that it’s not automatic. She likens it to downloading a new program—you need more than just experience. Her courage, unwavering spirit, and refusal to give up were crucial. As she heads to Tokyo, she carries with her not only decades of experience but also the sheer joy of competing at the highest level. Ni Xialian’s story inspires us all, proving that age is no barrier when passion and determination drive you forward.
JP2021.COM