Zeng Zhiying, also known by her Chilean name Tania, has fulfilled her childhood dream of competing in table tennis at the Olympics as the oldest athlete on Chile's national team at 58 years old. Speaking to the Associated Press ahead of the Paris Olympics, she shared that she “never imagined” she would ever make it, adding, “Qualifying for an Olympics is a big, gigantic dream, and being able to fulfill it at that age is a huge happiness.”
Her Olympic journey ended after a 4-1 loss to Lebanon’s Mariana Sahakian in the preliminary rounds of women’s single table tennis on Saturday. However, Zeng's journey is remarkable, highlighting her determination to achieve her goals, no matter what life throws at her.
From National Champion to Teaching Children in Chile
Born in Guangzhou in 1966 to a professional table tennis coach, Zeng began training in the sport at 9 years old, enrolled at an elite sports academy at 11 and turned professional a year later. She was only 20 when she retired from competitive play due to challenges adapting to a new rule where paddles had to be different on both sides. However, her passion for the sport never waned.
In 1989, Zeng moved to Arica, a northern city in Chile, to teach children table tennis. She settled down, picked up Spanish, and worked as a trader of Chinese goods. Despite multiple retirements, she returned to competitive play during the COVID-19 pandemic and became an icon at the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago, where she won a bronze medal in the team competition.
A Mother’s Comeback Story
Zeng’s road to the Olympics is one less travelled. Her journey involves family, resilience, and a renewed passion for table tennis.
She picked up a bat again in 2003 to encourage her elder son Wang Zhixin, then 13, to lead a more active lifestyle. She started playing in local events and won national tournaments but stopped again when Wang became more independent.
The itch returned when she was bored during the pandemic, and in her mid-50s, she made another comeback, winning regional tournaments – sometimes against men – and passing the national team trials for the 2023 South American Table Tennis Championships. She helped Chile clinch the women’s team title and silver in the singles and doubles.
An International Star Emerges
Zeng was congratulated by Chilean President Gabriel Boric and became a local sensation. She became an international star when she earned her Olympic debut via a qualifying tournament in May. Her story has captured the hearts of many, inspiring people worldwide to pursue their dreams, regardless of age.
Zeng’s journey from national champion to teaching children in Chile, her comeback story during the pandemic, and her eventual Olympic debut are all testaments to her passion, dedication, and unwavering spirit. She has shown that it's never too late to chase your dreams, even when faced with challenges and setbacks. Her story is a beacon of hope and inspiration for people of all ages.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Zeng's journey is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance. She has shown the world that age is just a number and that with passion and hard work, anything is possible. Her story has inspired millions and will continue to do so for generations to come. She has made her mark on the world of table tennis, and her legacy will be one of courage, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams.
Zeng Zhiying: A Name to Remember
Zeng Zhiying, also known as Tania, will be remembered for her incredible journey. From her early days as a professional athlete to her time as a coach and her inspiring comeback, she has left an indelible mark on the sport of table tennis. Her story is a reminder that we should never give up on our dreams, no matter how old we are. Zeng Zhiying has shown the world that age is just a number, and that it is never too late to achieve our goals. Her journey is a source of inspiration for all who aspire to greatness. And her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
