Zeng Poised to Make History as One of the Oldest Olympians at Paris 2024

At 58 years old, Zeng is set to become one of the oldest athletes to compete in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, marking a remarkable journey that began in China during the 1970s. After years of dedication and a recent qualification for Chile’s table tennis team, Zeng reflects on her long and winding path to the Olympic stage, emphasizing that the wait has been worthwhile. Zeng's early training was under her mother until she turned nine, after which she resisted parental coaching. By the age of 16, she earned a spot on the Chinese national table tennis team. However, her career faced challenges, leading to a hiatus from competitive play. It wasn't until 2003, motivated by a desire to engage her son in sports, that she returned to the game, reigniting her passion for table tennis. Her competitive spirit was reignited as she sought to test her skills against others, recalling the thrill of her youth as a professional athlete in China. Zeng's family remains a significant source of support; her father, now 92, and her brother stayed up late in China to watch her matches, while her husband and friends celebrated her achievements in Lima. As Zeng prepares for the Olympics, she embodies resilience and determination, proving that age is just a number in the pursuit of one’s dreams. Her story serves as an inspiration to athletes of all ages, showcasing the enduring spirit of competition and the love for the sport.