SANTIAGO, Chile

– Zeng Zhiying, a former table tennis player who left China in 1989, has made a remarkable journey from teaching the sport in northern Chile to qualifying for the Olympic Games. Zeng, who gained recognition in Chile after winning a bronze medal at the Pan American Games in Santiago last year, has since retired from competitive play to focus on her business and family. Reflecting on her unexpected Olympic qualification, she expressed immense joy, stating, “Qualifying for an Olympics is a big, gigantic dream.” Zeng's journey began as a child, accompanying her mother to professional training sessions. After a decade as a high-performance athlete, her life changed when she moved to Arica, Chile, to teach table tennis. Now ranked 151st in the world, she has rejoined the national team and recently triumphed over Dominican player Eva Peña Brito in her Pan American Games debut. Zeng's popularity in Chile is evident, as she enjoys the support and recognition from fans. As she prepares for the upcoming Olympics in Paris, Zeng carries with her a wealth of experience and determination. Despite her excitement, she acknowledges the physical risks involved in the sport, expressing concern over potential injuries. However, she remains focused on her lifelong dream, encouraged by a mentor who reminded her to pursue her aspirations wholeheartedly. Zeng's story is one of resilience and passion, inspiring many as she approaches this significant milestone in her athletic career.