China badminton player Huang Ya Qiong achieved a remarkable triumph at the Olympics on Friday, exhibiting an exceptional level of skill and determination, thereby earning herself a highly deserved gold medal and commendation.
Huang and her partner, Zheng Siwei, emerged victorious against the South Korean pair of Kim Won-ho and Jeong Na-eun, achieving a commendable win with a score of 21-8, 21-11 in the mixed doubles' category. This marked the culmination of their faultless performance in Paris. With the gold medal gracefully adorning her neck, she cordially accepted a marriage proposal from Li Yuchen, a highly esteemed colleague within China's badminton team.
Huang, an Olympic champion, found the proposal surprising as he was focused on the game. He didn't expect it.
Huang and Zheng, distinguished silver medalists at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, showcased remarkable proficiency by attaining a flawless 3-0 record in group play, thereby securing the coveted top seed in the prestigious quarterfinals. Their unwavering commitment and unparalleled abilities propelled them to victory throughout the tournament, culminating their illustrious journey with an impeccable 6-0 record without succumbing to defeat in any match.
Zhen stated that he got engaged three years ago, after his defeat in the final, deeming this occurrence a profoundly enriching experience for his significant other.
He stated that this time it would bring her more joy as it combines two fortuitous events.
Yuta Watanabe and Arisa Higashino of Japan triumphed in an admirable manner, emerging victorious against South Korea's Seo Seung-jae and Chae Yu-jung with a resolute score of 21-13, 22-20 in the bronze-medal match. Notably, Watanabe and Higashino had previously won the Olympic bronze medal in their native land three years ago. Despite their exceptional display, they conveyed a sense of disappointment at their inability to surpass their previous accomplishments on this particular occasion.
Yuta said, "Bronze is not the best. I wanted gold, but it's better than nothing."
China has emerged victorious in five out of the eight gold medals awarded in mixed doubles badminton since its induction as an Olympic discipline in 1996. Following their triumph in Tokyo, Wang Yilyu decided to retire after competing alongside Huang Dong-Ping. Regrettably, in the city of Paris, Huang Dong Ping formed a partnership with Feng Yan Zhe but were unable to advance beyond the quarterfinals, ultimately being defeated by the formidable pair of Zheng and Huang.
The nation has achieved noteworthy success by obtaining gold and silver medals in the women's doubles badminton event. Chen Qing Chen and Jia Yi Fan are set to take part in an exclusive all-China final that is scheduled for Saturday, where they will be competing against formidable opponents Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning.