AS the Paris Olympics, which are set to kick off at 1:30 a.m. Beijing time July 27, draw near, athletes from Shenzhen, who are part of the Chinese delegation, have fully prepared themselves for the quadrennial games.

“I hope to fully enjoy the Olympic stage and strive for excellent results. I also want to watch events I’m interested in, like athletics and swimming. I’m so excited for the Olympics!” said Shenzhen tennis star Wang Xinyu.

This will be Wang’s first Olympic experience. She previously competed in the Youth Olympics, where she partnered with Wang Xiyu and won a bronze medal. In Paris, Wang Xinyu will participate in both singles and doubles events and team up with veteran Zheng Saisai. They are widely regarded as strong contenders for the title.

“Saisai has competed in two Olympics, and her guidance and experience give me confidence in the doubles,” Wang added.

Also from Shenzhen, synchronized swimming twins Wang Liuyi and Wang Qianyi have dominated various international competitions and won numerous medals. This will be their first time sharing the Olympic stage, with elder sister Wang Liuyi making her Olympic debut and younger sister Wang Qianyi aiming to improve after winning a silver medal in Tokyo.

“I didn’t compete in the last Olympics due to injury. My dream of standing on the Olympic podium has never changed, so I chose to return to the competitive arena,” said Wang Liuyi.

Facing the Olympics can cause anxiety for any athlete, but maintaining a positive mindset can be a great strength. Liu Hong, a 37-year-old racewalker, exemplifies this relaxed mindset. “I’m nervous but not panicking, which is an advantage brought by age and experience,” Liu said.

(Liu Yangyang)