Sports

A Triumphant Comeback in Anhui After enduring more than four years of suspension, Chinese swimming legend Sun Yang (孙杨) made a dramatic return to the pool, choosing his ancestral home in Anhui (安徽) as the venue for his first competitive race. The 2024 National Summer Swimming Championships in Hefei (合肥) provided the stage for his comeback, where Sun Yang's presence reignited the passion and hope of swimming fans across the nation. On the night of August 25, Sun Yang competed in the men's 400-meter freestyle final. This race would not only test his physical abilities but also symbolize his return from the darkness that had overshadowed his career. The anticipation in the arena was palpable as the crowd erupted into cheers when his name was announced. The atmosphere reached a fever pitch when he stood on the starting block in lane five, with the entire audience holding its breath as they awaited the starting signal. When the race began, it was clear that the years away from competition had not dulled Sun Yang's prowess. He swam with a determination that belied his time away from the sport, and as he touched the wall first, the crowd exploded in celebration. The…

As the digital age blurs the boundaries between sports and entertainment, e-sports has emerged as a unique fusion of both, creating a new cultural phenomenon. Among the various e-sports tournaments, the FC Pro Championship, a top-tier football e-sports event, has gained significant attention, particularly in Shanghai, the city striving to become the global hub of e-sports. This year, the championship is not only about the thrill of competition but also about the cultural resonance of music that transcends borders and brings together different nations. The stage is set, not just for the players, but for a symphony that amplifies the spirit of the game, thanks to the creative efforts of Shanghai’s very own music ensemble. Music as a Cultural Bridge: Crafting the Soundtrack of Competition The integration of music into sports events is not a new concept, but Musicore’s (心琉乐团) approach to the FC Pro Championship is groundbreaking. Traditionally, music has been the backdrop, a subtle enhancer of the competitive atmosphere. However, in this championship, music has taken center stage, becoming a vital element that embodies the cultural essence of the participating nations. The Musicore, led by founder and music director Liu Xuejing (柳雪婷), has created a series of anthems…

The glittering world of sports has long been a realm where talent, dedication, and hard work are celebrated. Athletes train tirelessly, pushing the limits of human capability, all for the glory of representing their nations and achieving personal excellence. But in recent years, a darker side of fandom has begun to cast a shadow over the field, particularly in China. What was once a simple act of cheering from the stands has evolved into an all-consuming obsession that threatens the very essence of sportsmanship. This phenomenon, known as "fan culture" or "fan circles" (饭圈), has taken root in various sports, from table tennis to gymnastics, leading to a toxic environment where athletes are both worshipped and persecuted. A New Kind of Fandom: When Support Crosses the Line In the age of social media, the relationship between athletes and their fans has become more intimate and immediate. Platforms like MicroBlog, TikTok, and other social networks have allowed fans to follow their favorite athletes' moves, from training sessions to personal moments. However, this accessibility has also led to an unhealthy blurring of boundaries. Take, for example, the Chinese table tennis team, a powerhouse in the sport. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Chinese…

Bridging the Gap Between Reality and Virtuality The concept of virtual sports is rapidly gaining momentum, but it’s not just about playing sports-themed video games on a computer screen. The recent Beijing Virtual Sports Games offered a fresh perspective on what virtual sports can be, showcasing the potential to blend physical activity with digital innovation. Organized by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Sports and the Beijing Sports Federation, the event drew over 7,000 participants. It featured six distinct competition categories: digital golf, smart orienteering, virtual cycling, virtual rowing, laser simulation shooting, and e-sports racing. The games were meticulously divided into adult, youth, junior, and children's categories, ensuring that every participant found a stage suited to their abilities and interests. The event demonstrated the transformative power of advanced digital equipment. Traditional sports, which typically require large spaces and specific environments, were compacted into small, accessible areas without sacrificing the essence of the sporting experience. This innovation not only preserved the competitive spirit of the sports but also significantly lowered the barriers to participation, attracting a broader audience. Whether a beginner or a seasoned athlete, everyone could find their place in the virtual arena, enjoying the thrill and joy that sports bring.…

A Civilization’s Love for Physical Excellence China’s impressive performance at the recent 33rd Summer Olympic Games, where the nation secured 40 gold medals, 27 silver medals, and 24 bronze medals, is a testament to both its athletic prowess and the deep cultural significance of sports in Chinese history. While the achievements of the Chinese sports delegation have brought pride to the nation, they also highlight a cultural continuum that stretches back thousands of years. As a civilization with a history spanning over 5,000 years, China has long valued the cultivation of both the body and the mind. The earliest records of sports in China date back to the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BCE), where oracle bone inscriptions reveal at least nine distinct types of physical activities. These activities included wrestling, archery, horseback riding, mountain climbing, running, rowing, music and dance, and swimming. Remarkably, many of these ancient activities remain popular in today’s sports competitions, illustrating the enduring nature of China's athletic traditions. One of the earliest recorded sports is wrestling, an activity that appears on oracle bones under the character "Fight" (斗), depicting two individuals engaged in a hand-to-hand struggle. This ancient form of wrestling is strikingly similar to modern practices,…

Redefining E-Sports with a Cultural Twist In the ever-evolving realm of e-sports, where digital gaming continues to surge in popularity, Jiao Gong Ming (角弓鸣) is carving out a unique niche by merging traditional Chinese culture with modern gaming. Since its inception in January 2024, Jiao Gong Ming has not only made a mark in the e-sports broadcasting industry but also revitalized the sector with its innovative business model and marketing strategies. This emerging e-sports platform is more than just a live-streaming service; it's a cultural ambassador that blends the essence of Chinese heritage with the vibrant energy of contemporary gaming. Through cutting-edge broadcasting techniques and a deep respect for traditional culture, Jiao Gong Ming is setting new standards and offering unprecedented experiences to its audience. Jiao Gong Ming stands at the forefront of the female-centric, culturally rich e-sports broadcasting landscape. Its success is rooted in a strategic approach that combines a profound understanding of the e-sports market with a unique focus on integrating national cultural elements. By attracting a diverse audience that includes both female gamers and enthusiasts of Chinese cultural trends, Jiao Gong Ming is actively contributing to the diversification of the e-sports community. Innovative Business Model Driving Industry…

The Spirit of Perseverance: Shanghai’s Legacy in the Paralympics As the Paris 2024 Summer Paralympic games draw near, the world watches in anticipation. From August 28 to September 8, the French capital will host thousands of athletes from across the globe, all united by their extraordinary stories of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. Among them is a strong contingent from China, with 25 athletes hailing from Shanghai, a city that has consistently contributed remarkable talent to the Paralympic movement since China first participated in 1984. This year, Shanghai is not only sending athletes but has also become the training ground for three national teams: the Wheelchair Fencing Team, the Sitting Volleyball Team, and the Wheelchair Racing Team. These teams, comprising a mix of seasoned Paralympic veterans and enthusiastic newcomers, have been honing their skills and building their stamina in the lead-up to the Games. The youngest member of this dedicated group is just 17 years old. Stories of Dedication: The Faces Behind the Medals One of the most inspiring figures in this group is Gu Haiyan (辜海燕), a wheelchair fencer who is no stranger to the world stage. Her fencing journey began ten years ago, when she was…

How a Volunteer Became a Cultural Ambassador After two weeks of non-stop activity, Chen Qiqi's (陈琪琪) life has returned to its usual calm following the conclusion of the Paris Sports Festival. During this time, she played many roles: she was a volunteer, teaching ancient Chinese Baduanjin (八段锦) exercises to foreigners, providing guided tours for Chinese tourists in Paris, and an enthusiastic sports fan, cheering for her favorite athletes. After living in France for 26 years, this ordinary Chinese found that her plain life was completely changed by recent sporting events. Chen Qiqi never imagined that a video of foreigners attempting Baduanjin in front of Paris's Arc de Triomphe would propel her into the spotlight. The day before the festival’s opening, a crowd of Parisians and international tourists gathered to experience Baduanjin, with Chen Qiqi leading the event. The enthusiasm of the participants surpassed her expectations. Passersby randomly selected cards with Baduanjin poses and followed Chen's instructions to replicate the movements. Despite some confusion between Tai Chi (太极拳) and Baduanjin, many foreigners were thrilled, praising “Chinese martial arts” and sharing their own experiences of visiting Beijing. Chen’s experiences reflect a growing global recognition of Chinese culture. Even in the French countryside,…

From Track to Trends: How Retired Athletes Are Reclaiming the Commercial Arena In the cyclical world of sports and celebrity, the approach of each Olympic Games brings with it a curious phenomenon: the resurgence of retired athletes in the public eye. This year, as the world turns its attention to the upcoming Paris Olympics, a familiar name has leapt back into the limelight, proving that in the realm of sports marketing, some stars never truly fade. Liu Xiang (刘翔), China's legendary hurdler and former Olympic champion, has found himself at the center of a remarkable commercial renaissance. Twenty years after his groundbreaking gold medal performance in Athens, Liu's influence appears to be stronger than ever. With over 370,000 followers on his social media account "I am Liu Xiang," he has recently secured partnerships with major brands such as Hegao Tea (鹤皋茶), Nike, Yili Group, Ping An Insurance, and JD.com's instant delivery service. These new endorsements, alongside his existing portfolio of 14 major brand collaborations, paint a picture of an athlete whose marketability has not only endured but thrived long after his competitive career ended. The story of Liu Xiang's continued relevance is not merely one of nostalgia or clever marketing. It speaks…

The Unexpected Rise: Golf Takes Center Stage in China's Olympic Journey As the curtains begin to fall on the Paris Olympics, a surprising narrative has emerged from the sea of red and gold. While China's prowess in traditional strongholds like swimming and tennis continues to dazzle, it's the nation's performance on the golf course that has captured the world's imagination. Lin Xiyu (林希妤)and Yin Ruoning (殷若宁), China's dynamic golfing duo, have become the unexpected heroines of these Games. Their journey from relative obscurity to Olympic contenders mirrors the rapid evolution of golf in China - a sport once viewed as an elitist pastime, now embraced by a new generation of athletes and enthusiasts. On the pristine greens of the French National Golf Course, Lin and Yin have showcased not just their individual talents, but the fruits of China's long-term investment in the sport. Their impressive performances - with Yin shooting a remarkable 7 under par to claim second place after the second round, and Lin holding strong in sixth - have sent ripples through the golfing world. This success story goes beyond mere athletic achievement. It represents a cultural shift, a breaking down of barriers, and a reimagining of what Chinese sports…

In a groundbreaking media project, the worlds of Olympic sports and traditional Chinese opera have collided in an unprecedented way. The show, titled Different Strokes, Same Mastery (异曲同“功”), has been captivating audiences since its debut, offering a unique blend of athleticism and artistry. This innovative series, produced by China Media Group’s Arts Program Center, features five Olympic and World Champions who team up with fifteen Chinese opera performers to explore the parallels between six major sports and the skills of traditional opera. Through this cross-disciplinary exchange, the program not only showcases the beauty of both disciplines but also highlights the dedication and perseverance required to excel in these demanding fields. A Meeting of Equals: Sports and Opera Collide The show is divided into six episodes, each lasting 15 minutes, where champions from sports like fencing, diving, and rhythmic gymnastics are paired with opera artists skilled in techniques like "Small Quick Spear," "Cloud Somersault," and "Chair Skills." Among the participants are Olympic fencing champion Zhong Man, diving gold medalist He Chong, archery champion Zhang Juanjuan, gymnastics world champion Zhang Nan, and rhythmic gymnastics world champion Sui Jianshuang. These athletes are joined by talented young opera performers such as Tang Kai, Zhang Huan,…

Breaking Barriers: China's Heavyweight Triumph at the Paris Olympics In the storied arena of Olympic weightlifting, a new chapter has been etched into the annals of sporting history. As the world's eyes turned to Paris on a balmy August evening, the men's 102kg category became the stage for an unprecedented feat that would resonate far beyond the confines of the competition hall. Liu Huanhua (刘焕华), a name that may have been unfamiliar to many outside the weightlifting community, stepped onto the platform with the weight of expectations on his broad shoulders. At just 22 years old, this young athlete from China was about to challenge not only his competitors but also the very limits of human strength and national legacy. The atmosphere in the venue was electric, a palpable tension hanging in the air as Liu approached the bar for his first attempt in the snatch. With a determination that belied his years, he successfully hoisted 186kg above his head, setting a new personal best and immediately asserting his dominance in a category that had long eluded Chinese success. But Liu's journey to this moment was far from overnight. Months earlier, at the World Weightlifting Championships, he had already signaled…

From Niche to Mainstream: Paddleboarding and Kayaking Sweep Across Chinese Cities In the sweltering heat of a Chinese summer, a quiet revolution is taking place on the waterways of major cities. Once considered niche activities reserved for coastal areas, paddleboarding and kayaking are now making a splash in urban centers, transforming cityscapes and leisure habits alike. The scene at Jincheng Lake in Chengdu on a typical weekend is a far cry from what it was just a few years ago. Today, the serene waters are dotted with colorful boards and sleek kayaks, piloted by enthusiasts of all ages. This surge in popularity isn't limited to Chengdu; similar sights can be observed in parks and lakes across China's major cities. The catalyst for this water sports boom is multifaceted. Social media platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin have played a crucial role, with thousands of posts showcasing the appeal of these activities. The visually striking nature of paddleboarding and kayaking, set against urban backdrops, has created a perfect storm of Instagram-worthy content that continues to draw newcomers to the sport. But it's not just about the aesthetics. The ongoing Paris Olympics have added fuel to the fire, with Chinese athletes making waves…

From Wall Street to Climbing Walls: How Young Professionals are Redefining Leisure In the shadow of millennia-old pagodas and city walls, a new culture is taking root in China's historic urban centers. Young professionals in cities like Xi'an are trading their business attire for climbing shoes and skateboards, embracing a wave of individual sports that offer a unique blend of physical challenge and mental respite. This shift represents more than just a passing trend; it's a fundamental reimagining of how urban dwellers interact with their environment and seek personal growth. The ancient city of Xi'an, once the starting point of the Silk Road, is now witnessing a different kind of journey – one of self-discovery through sports like rock climbing, skateboarding, and BMX riding. "In climbing, you need to shed all distractions and focus entirely on yourself," explains Liu Lu, a Xi'an resident with over a decade of climbing experience. This sentiment echoes across the growing community of solo sports enthusiasts in the city. For many, these activities offer a rare opportunity for introspection in an increasingly connected world. The appeal of these sports lies not just in their physical demands but in their accessibility and adaptability. Rock climbing gyms…

A Battle of Generations and Dreams In the quarterfinals of the Paris Olympics women's singles, 21-year-old Chinese tennis player Zheng Qianwen (郑钦文) faced off against 36-year-old German veteran Angelique Kerber in a match that held significance beyond the court. Tears of Triumph and Resilience After a grueling three-hour battle under the Parisian sky, Zheng Qianwen emerged victorious, marking a milestone for Chinese tennis and her personal career. On the afternoon of July 31st, the quarterfinal match between Zheng Qianwen and Angelique Kerber at the Paris Olympics was more than just a tennis showdown; it was a clash of generations and aspirations. For Kerber, a seasoned player nearing the end of her illustrious career, this match carried the weight of potential finality. Meanwhile, for Zheng Qianwen, it represented a chance to break a 16-year barrier for Chinese women's tennis at the Olympic level. Reflecting back to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Li Na's quarterfinal victory over Serena Williams marked a historic achievement for Chinese tennis, yet since then, no one had managed to replicate that success. Fast forward to July 31, 2024, and the stage was set for Zheng Qianwen to possibly carve her name into the annals of Chinese tennis history. The match…

A Legendary Encounter at the Paris Olympics At 61, Luxembourg's Ni Xialian (倪夏莲) faced off against China's Sun Yingsha, 38 years her junior, in a memorable table tennis match that captivated audiences worldwide. From Dream to Reality: Ni Xialian's Journey to Paris Ni Xialian's remarkable journey from childhood aspirations to Olympic participation exemplifies determination, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in sports. In the midst of the Paris Olympics, amidst the thunderous applause and standing ovation from spectators, one athlete stood out not just for her performance, but for the sheer spirit she brought to the arena. Ni Xialian, at the age of 61, represented Luxembourg in a poignant match against China's Sun Yingsha in the women's singles table tennis event. While the result saw Ni Xialian bow out with a 0-4 scoreline, her presence transcended the game itself, embodying the essence of sportsmanship and unwavering dedication. Ni Xialian's journey to Paris was not just about competing; it was a testament to a lifetime of dedication to her sport. Invited by the Chinese table tennis team to assist as a practice partner ahead of their mixed doubles final, Ni Xialian exemplified sports diplomacy and camaraderie. Reflecting on her role, Ni Xialian remarked, "The Chinese team…

Struggles in Paris: China's Tough Journey in Women's Basketball As the Paris Olympics continue to unfold, the Chinese women's basketball team finds themselves in a precarious position after suffering a second consecutive defeat in the group stage. Their latest setback came at the hands of Serbia, with a disappointing scoreline of 59-81, highlighting the team's uphill battle to advance. In their first match of the tournament, China faced Spain in a tightly contested game that ended in a heartbreaking 89-90 overtime loss. Despite putting up a valiant effort, the narrow defeat set the tone for a challenging campaign ahead. The pressure intensified as they prepared to take on Serbia, who had previously defeated Puerto Rico 58-55. The match against Serbia started ominously for China, as their opponents capitalized on turnovers early in the game, quickly establishing a lead. Despite efforts to rally back, including strong performances from players like Han Xu, Yang Liwei, Li Yueru, and Huang Siyu, China struggled to contain Serbia's offensive prowess. By the end of the first quarter, China found themselves trailing 17-23, a deficit that would prove difficult to overcome. The second quarter saw China make concerted efforts to close the gap, with Han Xu drawing…

Triumph in Paris: China's Golden Diving Duo China's dominance in diving reached new heights on July 31st at the Paris Olympics as the duo of Quan Hongchan (全红婵) and Chen Yuxi (陈芋汐) clinched the gold in the women's synchronized 10m platform final. This victory marked not only their third gold medal at the Games but also a significant milestone for Chinese diving, as it secured the nation's 50th Olympic gold since its debut in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. For Guangzhou's athletes, it was a historic first at Paris, marking a memorable start to their Olympic journey. In the aftermath of their win, Quan Hongchan and Chen Yuxi were greeted with thunderous applause and an outpouring of support from fans, including plush toys tossed from the stands. Quan Hongchan, holding one of these toys as she exited the diving arena, excitedly exclaimed upon meeting Winter Olympics champion Gu Ailing, "I finally get to meet you in person!" Their exchange, filled with genuine admiration and camaraderie, highlighted the warmth and sportsmanship among athletes from different disciplines. Despite their convincing victory, Chen Yuxi, known for her strict self-discipline, expressed a critical view of their performance, stating, "Even though we won comfortably, it's the Olympics after all.…

The Underdog's Journey: Wang Xiyu's Fight Against the Odds On the early morning of July 31, the Paris Olympics witnessed a gripping encounter in the women’s singles tennis tournament. Wang Xiyu (王曦雨), a rising star in Chinese tennis, showcased her resilience and determination despite battling a significant injury. The world saw her compete fiercely against Iga Świątek, the world's number one, eventually falling short with scores of 3-6 and 4-6. This defeat, while marking her exit from the tournament at the Round of 16, highlighted her incredible spirit and skill. Wang Xiyu’s journey to the Round of 16 was nothing short of remarkable. She dominated her opening match, sweeping past Nosskova with ease. Her impressive performance continued in the second round, where she outplayed Schneider, the recent red clay court champion. This victory set the stage for her highly anticipated clash with Świątek, who was a formidable opponent given her top ranking. A Battle of Wills: Wang Xiyu vs. Świątek The match began with Wang Xiyu displaying her characteristic baseline prowess and powerful shots. However, Świątek, ever the tactical player, quickly identified Wang’s vulnerability—her slowed movement due to a left leg injury. Exploiting this weakness, Świątek strategically targeted the sidelines, achieving…

Strategic Decisions and Team Composition In the early hours of July 31st, the finale of the Paris Olympics swimming events saw the culmination of the men's 4x200m freestyle relay. The Chinese team comprising Ji Xinjie (季新杰), Fei Liwei (费立纬), Pan Zhanle (潘展乐), and Zhang Zhanshuo (张展硕) finished fourth with a time of 7:04.37. Despite narrowly missing out on a medal, their performance marked China's second-best result in this event at the Olympics. To bolster their chances for a podium finish, China strategized meticulously on team composition. On July 30th, Niu Guangsheng, originally slated for the men's 200m butterfly, opted out of his individual event to focus solely on the 4x200m freestyle relay. His inclusion was pivotal despite not being part of the championship-winning team from the recent Doha World Championships earlier in the year. Historical Context and Future Prospects China's journey in the 4x200m freestyle relay dates back to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where they clinched a bronze medal. Since then, their podium appearances have been sparse until the breakthrough at the Doha World Championships earlier this year. The team's performance in Paris, although falling short of medals, underscores their potential and sets a promising trajectory for future competitions. The Paris Olympics brought a wave…

Team China's Resilience and Challenges in Paris Olympics China's gymnastics team faced tough competition in the team event at the Paris Olympics, finishing sixth despite high hopes for a better outcome. Captain Qiu Qiyuan (邱祺缘) expressed disappointment with the result and looks ahead to individual events with determination. Qiu Qiyuan's Quest for Gold on Uneven Bars Qiu Qiyuan, known for her prowess on the uneven bars, aims to clinch a gold medal after leading China's gymnastics team through the team event at the Paris Olympics. The conclusion of the team competition in gymnastics at the Paris Olympics on July 31 left Team China with mixed emotions. Their sixth-place finish, though an improvement from the previous Olympics, fell short of their aspirations. Led by captain Qiu Qiyuan, the team had set their sights on reclaiming a spot among the top three, a feat that has eluded them for several years. Qiu Qiyuan, whose strength lies notably in the uneven bars, had been pivotal in guiding the team's efforts. Her balanced performance across all four disciplines was crucial, yet the team struggled with execution errors, such as nearly losing balance on the balance beam by Zhou Yaqin (周雅琴). Disparities in vaulting performance further underscored the…

From Tokyo to Paris: Sheng Lihao's Remarkable Olympic Journey Sheng Lihao (盛李豪), a name now synonymous with excellence in men's 10-meter air rifle shooting, returned triumphantly from the Paris Olympics with two gold medals. However, Sheng's journey to sporting greatness is not merely about talent but is deeply rooted in dedication and perseverance. Three years ago, Sheng was not the celebrated athlete he is today. He began his Olympic journey as a training partner for the national team during the delayed Tokyo Olympics. Unexpectedly, he progressed from a zero-score competitor to securing a spot in the Tokyo Olympics, where he won a silver medal in the men's 10-meter air rifle event. Fast forward to Paris, Sheng emerged as a double gold medalist, surpassing all expectations. Humility Amidst Success: Sheng Lihao's Perspective Despite accolades labeling him a prodigy, Sheng Lihao remains grounded. In an interview before leaving Paris, he dismissed claims of being a natural talent, attributing his success to consistent training rather than innate ability. "I know many see me this way, but I don't consider myself a prodigy. Even my talent isn't exceptional," Sheng remarked humbly. Sheng emphasizes that his achievements stem from accumulated training efforts and occasional challenges to…

Pandas as Global Sports Ambassadors Pandas have emerged as beloved symbols not just of China's natural heritage but also as prominent ambassadors in international sporting events. The 2024 Paris Olympics are no exception, where these charismatic animals continue to captivate hearts. In the heart of the Paris Olympic Village along the Seine River, the panda motif adorns the headquarters of the Chinese sports delegation. Volunteers and staff proudly sport panda-themed badges, showcasing the universal appeal of these iconic creatures beyond geographical borders. From "Basi" to "Kobe": A Legacy of Olympic Spirit The story of pandas in the Olympics traces back decades, starting with "Basi," who became the prototype for the Beijing Asian Games mascot, "Panpan." Born in Baoxing County, Sichuan, Basi's journey from the icy waters of Basi Gou to international fame symbolized resilience and the spirit of sportsmanship. Basi's impact extended beyond China's borders when she visited San Diego in 1987, igniting the "panda fever" along the West Coast of the United States. Her popularity soared, with thousands queuing for hours just to catch a glimpse, demonstrating the global fascination with these gentle giants. Cultural Bridges and International Cooperation Pandas have not only captured hearts but also facilitated diplomatic…

In the shimmering lights of the 2024 Paris Olympics, history was once again made as Chinese athletes Huang Yuting (黄雨婷) and Sheng Lihao (盛李豪) clinched the nation's first gold medal in the 10m air rifle mixed team event. This victory not only marked a triumphant start for Team China in Paris but also ignited memories of a pivotal moment in Olympic history—the birth of China's first-ever gold medal exactly forty years ago. It was on July 29, 1984, during the Los Angeles Olympics, that shooter Xu Haifeng (许海峰) etched his name in the annals of Chinese sports. With a total score of 566, Xu Haifeng emerged victorious in the men's 50m pistol event, shattering China's Olympic gold medal drought and laying the foundation for the nation's subsequent sporting prowess on the global stage. His achievement transcended personal glory; it symbolized the rise of a nation and the rejuvenation of a people. In commemoration of this historic milestone, the film "Xu Haifeng's Gun" will be aired on July 29 by the Movie Channel. This cinematic masterpiece delves into Xu Haifeng's journey of growth and perseverance, offering audiences a glimpse into the transformative power of sports and the human spirit. A Journey of Resilience Born in 1957, Xu…