Sun Yang Claims First Victory Since Return, Wins 400m Freestyle atNational Summer Swimming Championships
HEFEI, CHINA – Sun Yang, the legendary Chinese swimmer, made a triumphant return to the pool, claiming his first victory since his 1680-day suspension, at the2024 National Summer Swimming Championships in Hefei, Anhui Province. The 32-year-old swimmer, known for his powerful finish,dominated the men’s 400m freestyle final, clocking in at 3:49.58.
The National Summer Swimming Championships, a national-level B-class event, serves as a qualifying competition forthe National Swimming Championships. This was Sun Yang’s first official competition since his suspension ended on May 28th, 2024.
The 2024 competition marked a significant milestone for Sun Yang,who is the oldest competitor in the event. His last race was the 400m freestyle final at the 2020 World Swimming Championships in Beijing, where he secured victory with a time of 3:44.98.
Sun Yang’s return to competitive swimming was a highly anticipatedevent. He had been allowed to resume public training two months before the end of his suspension, and since March 28th, he had been training rigorously twice a day in preparation for his comeback.
In the morning’s preliminary heats, Sun Yang displayed impressive form, moving into first place after 150 meters and maintaining a lead of two to three body lengths. He finished with a time of 3:54.98, securing the top spot in his heat and second place overall, qualifying for the final.
After the preliminary race, an emotional Sun Yang attributed his perseverance to the unwavering support of hisfamily. It’s their support that has allowed me to keep going, he said, tears welling in his eyes.
Reflecting on his performance, Sun Yang expressed satisfaction with his results, considering the short time since he resumed training. I’m happy with my performance. My coach just wanted meto meet the qualifying standard, he said.
Sun Yang expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to compete and his commitment to giving his all in the final. I’m just happy to be here. I’ll give it my best shot, not just for myself, but for all the fans and spectators who cameto watch me, he said.
In the evening’s final, Sun Yang started in lane five. He was in fourth place after the first 100 meters but surged ahead at 250 meters, taking the lead. He then showcased his trademark powerful finish, securing victory with a time of3:49.58.
Sun Yang’s return to the top of the podium is a testament to his dedication and resilience. He remains the Olympic record holder in the men’s 400m freestyle, having set the record at the London Olympics in 2012 with atime of 3:40.14, making him the first Chinese male swimmer to win an Olympic gold medal.
Sun Yang’s career has been marked by both triumph and controversy. He has won three Olympic gold medals, including the 400m and 1500m freestyle inLondon and the 200m freestyle in Rio. However, he has also faced doping allegations and a suspension, which cast a shadow over his career.
Despite the challenges, Sun Yang remains a figure of inspiration for many in China. His return to competition is a reminder of his enduring passion for swimming and hisdetermination to continue competing at the highest level.
When asked about his plans for the future, including a potential appearance at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Sun Yang said he would take things one step at a time. If I have the opportunity, I’ll give it my all. If not, I’ll accept it gracefully, he said.
Sun Yang’s victory at the National Summer Swimming Championships is a significant step in his comeback journey. It remains to be seen whether he can regain his former glory and achieve further success on the international stage, but his return to the pool has rekindled excitementand anticipation among swimming fans in China and around the world.
【来源】http://www.chinanews.com/ty/2024/08-25/10274516.shtml
Views: 1