Recently, two Chinese sports legends, Deng Yaping and Sun Jihai, made humorous remarks about Chinese table tennis and the Chinese men's football team during an event, drawing attention and discussion from fans and media.
Deng Yaping, known as the first "Great Demon King" of the Chinese table tennis team and the first Grand Slam winner, reached her career peak in the 1990s. Her success also propelled the rapid development of Chinese table tennis. Sun Jihai, a key player when the Chinese men's football team first qualified for the World Cup finals, had experience playing in the English Premier League, making him one of China's top overseas players. Deng Yaping represents table tennis, while Sun Jihai represents Chinese men's football.
At the annual charity gala hosted by "China Philanthropist" magazine, Sun Jihai was named Person of the Year. This recognition is largely due to his efforts in youth training over recent years. Unlike typical youth training institutions, Sun Jihai offers free training. Football youth training is a costly endeavor that many families cannot afford. Sun Jihai's good deeds have been recognized, and his selection is well-deserved.
Deng Yaping was invited to present the award to Sun Jihai. What should have been a normal award ceremony became noteworthy due to their banter. Deng Yaping said, "China has two balls that no one can win!" This statement clearly implies that the Chinese men's football team can't win against any opponent, while the Chinese table tennis team can defeat any opponent. In other words, it's easy for the Chinese table tennis team to win, while it's equally easy for opponents of the Chinese men's football team to win.
In response to Deng Yaping's jest, Sun Jihai admitted that she spoke the truth, which is hurtful! However, he added that the Chinese football industry isn't lacking in pain. Therefore, it's time to reflect deeply. Sun Jihai also humorously remarked that in terms of failure experience, Chinese table tennis can't compare with the Chinese men's football team!
Both Deng Yaping and Sun Jihai's teasing reflects the truth and should be taken seriously by professionals in their respective fields! Chinese table tennis has become an absolute powerhouse in the world arena. At the Paris Olympics, the Chinese table tennis team once again swept all five gold medals. Since table tennis became an Olympic sport, the Chinese team has won 37 gold medals, while other associations have only won 5, showing a huge gap.
On the other hand, the Chinese men's football team has only participated in the Olympics twice and the World Cup once. Currently, the team has fallen from being a top Asian team to a third-rate one. There are multiple reasons for this decline, requiring reflection from football professionals!
We look forward to the day when the Chinese men's football team can follow the example of Chinese table tennis, break out of Asia, and make a global impact! Go for it!