University students exercise and take part in a hurdles race. [Photo by Zhao Qirui/Hao Qunying/for China Daily]

Competitive return

Ding, one of the most iconic players in the history of Chinese table tennis, won a gold and a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics, before pocketing another two golds four years later at the Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

After retiring in 2021, Ding pursued postgraduate studies at Peking University, where she graduated last month. She then returned to competition in Chengdu in a new role as deputy team leader.

"Training philosophies have evolved in university sports. For example, we used to focus solely on skills, but now we place more emphasis on the overall physical condition of an athlete. We also have smart equipment to monitor athletes' vital signs during training, which is very useful in prolonging their careers and avoiding injuries," Ding said.

Chinese badminton icon Li Xuerui, who won the women's singles gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, was a star coach at the Chengdu Games.

"I'm proud to coach the Chinese badminton squad at the Games. They trust me, and I shoulder this responsibility. I just want to pass my experience on to the younger generation of players," said Li, who retired in 2019 before becoming a university badminton instructor.

"I never took part in the World University Games as a player, but student-athletes can always make an impression with their energy and vitality, and I love the atmosphere at the Chengdu Games," Li said.

"From being a player to becoming a teacher, my roles have changed, and the feeling is very different. When I was a player, I just focused on myself, but now I have to think more about my students and how to attract more people to the sport of badminton.

"The World University Games are a great platform for young student-athletes to experience a major international event. The experience they have gained in Chengdu will inspire them for sure."

shifutian@chinadaily.com.cn