Tania Zeng, a former table tennis player from Chile, captured the hearts of her nation after winning a bronze medal at the Pan American Games in Santiago last year. Despite retiring from the sport long ago to focus on her business and family, Zeng’s passion for table tennis was reignited during the pandemic. Now, at the age of 51, she is set to achieve her lifelong dream of competing in the Olympics in Paris.
Zeng’s journey in table tennis began in her hometown of Foshan, China, where she was raised by her mother, a professional table tennis coach. With a decade of high-performance play under her belt, Zeng made a life-changing decision in 1989 to move to Chile and teach the sport to young athletes. This move led her to settle in Iquique, where she married and established her roots in a city with little Chinese presence at the time.
Despite her retirement from competitive play, Zeng’s love for the game never waned. Currently ranked 151st in the world, she continues to represent Chile on the national team. Her performance at the Pan American Games, where she clinched a bronze medal in the team competition, showcased her skill and determination on the international stage.
Zeng’s life is now divided between Iquique and Santiago, where she is embraced by fans who admire her dedication and spirit. She has become a beloved figure in Chile, with everyone recognizing her and expressing their support for her Olympic journey. Zeng’s commitment to the sport and her adopted country is unwavering, as she proudly proclaims, „I am already Chilean in heart and soul, everything. They are going to bury me here.“
As Zeng prepares to compete in Paris, she faces the challenges that come with being an older athlete. Concerns about injuries and physical limitations weigh on her mind, but her determination to fulfill her lifelong dream remains steadfast. With the support of her family, including her 92-year-old father in China, Zeng is ready to give her all on the Olympic stage.
On the day of her competition in Paris, the eyes of Chileans and supporters around the world will be on Zeng, cheering for their „Olympic grandmother.“ Her journey from a retired athlete to an Olympic contender is a testament to her resilience, passion, and unwavering pursuit of her dreams. Zeng’s story is one of inspiration and determination, proving that age is no barrier to achieving greatness in sports.