From "Thorn" to Top Coach: The Splendid Transformation of Qiu Yike
Would you believe it if someone transformed from a "thorn" into an "old father"? Qiu Yike, once a table tennis player frequently suspended for his rebellious nature, has now become a capable coach for Sun Yingsha. Not only has he helped his disciple win world championships, but he has also, through his own efforts and tenacity, become a brand ambassador for the national table tennis team. What happened during this transition? Was it personal growth or environmental shaping?
Qiu Yike's career as a player was a mix of highlights and controversies. He was not one of those naturally gifted, smooth-sailing table tennis players, but rather an individual with a strong personality. Most notably, his match against Japanese player Mizutani Jun at the 2005 World Table Tennis Championships became a media sensation. At that time, he firmly controlled the game with his unique chopping style, standing confidently in the center of the court with the eyes of a winner.
However, such a player with achievements faced frequent controversies due to his character issues. He was repeatedly punished within the team for "not following the rules," even earning the title of "thorn." In his youthful vigor, his flamboyance made him stand out, but it also caused him to miss many opportunities. In the later stages of his playing career, frequent suspensions narrowed his professional path until he ultimately chose to retire from the court.
Many thought that Qiu Yike would fade into obscurity, but who could have guessed that this "turbulent" experience would become a crucial foundation for his future coaching career. He accumulated experience from failure and learned how to face controversies and pressures.
After retiring, Qiu Yike did not choose to distance himself from table tennis. He started by coaching the national table tennis youth team, learning tactics theory and psychological counseling modestly. During those years, he was not under the spotlight but dedicated himself to refining the skills of young players. His efforts gradually gained recognition - he trained rising stars like Kuai Man. Although not well-known, this period of accumulation laid a solid foundation for him to become Sun Yingsha's head coach in the future.
In 2019, Qiu Yike officially took over Sun Yingsha, becoming her head coach. Honestly, many were skeptical about this "young coach." Sun Yingsha's previous coach, Chen Qi, was highly respected for his extensive experience and outstanding record, while Qiu Yike was still a "rookie," making it hard for people to be convinced. Worse still, Sun Yingsha narrowly missed the championship several times after reaching the finals, intensifying external doubts about Qiu Yike. Some even initiated a hot online post calling for Qiu Yike's resignation, almost pushing him to the forefront of public criticism.
However, Qiu Yike was not defeated by these voices. He chose to work silently, analyzing problems and adjusting training methods together with Sun Yingsha. Some say that a true coach is not just a technical guide but also a psychological support. And Qiu Yike slowly changed external perceptions with his "trickle-down" approach.
Half a year later, the efforts of Qiu Yike and Sun Yingsha finally paid off. Technically, Sun Yingsha's playing style became more stable, and psychologically, her confidence significantly improved. During the Paris Olympic cycle, Sun Yingsha won two golds and one silver, becoming a "new star" in the Chinese table tennis world. Although she narrowly lost to Chen Meng in the women's singles final, her performance in both team and singles events was commendable. As the coach behind her, Qiu Yike's dedication also earned the recognition of fans.
It must be mentioned that this achievement was not accidental but built upon countless adjustments and improvements after failures. For example, Qiu Yike would accompany Sun Yingsha in reviewing and analyzing each match, not to criticize but to help her find the root of the problems. Such a caring and pragmatic "old father" style of coaching gradually became the greatest support for Sun Yingsha's growth.
Of course, Qiu Yike's contributions extend beyond Sun Yingsha. In his coaching role, he has also made significant contributions to the overall development of the national table tennis team. Especially in some team events, he closely cooperated with other coaching teams, providing important suggestions for the tactical planning of the women's team. It can be said that he has grown from a "personal" coach to a more comprehensive and responsible "team" coach.
This transformation is the best proof of his change from being unruly as a player to being thoughtful as a coach. His transformation not only achieved success for Sun Yingsha but also benefited the entire national table tennis team.
While continuously breaking through in his career, Qiu Yike's family life is also touching. His wife, Wen Wei, chose to stay at home full-time to take care of the family and shoulder many responsibilities to support his career. This makes Qiu Yike's efforts in his career even more "energetic" - after all, he clearly knows that every effort he makes is not only for the national table tennis team but also for his family.
Recently, Qiu Yike became a brand ambassador for the national table tennis team, further demonstrating his personal value. From being a "thorn" player to a coach who can endorse brands today, this path has not been easy, proving his influence in the field of table tennis.
Ultimately, Qiu Yike's story is not just about table tennis; it is more like a mirror reflecting an individual's growth after experiencing setbacks. His transformation from a "thorn" to an "old father" involved repeated failures, reflections, and transformations. His mentorship with Sun Yingsha also showcases the emotional bonds and human strength behind competitive sports.
No one is born perfect, but as long as one is willing to strive, there will always come a day when light is seen.