Source: Panoramic/JB Autissier
[Saba Sports News] There was a girl who stood at
1.64 meters and achieved victory in the World Championship. However, she faced
dismissal from her coach based on her “short stature” and a perceived
limited future in her playing style. Fueled by anger, she chose to renounce her
Chinese nationality and became a citizen of France. Subsequently, she went on
to secure 14 gold medals. This remarkable individual is Pi Hongyan, a badminton
player who began her career in China’s Sichuan team. In 1999, Pi Hongyan
represented China and emerged as the champion in the women’s singles category
at the U.S. Badminton Open. It was anticipated that Pi Hongyan had a bright
future ahead, but she faced rejection from her coach. Despite her recent
victory, she left the national team and returned to the Sichuan team. Pi
Hongyan experienced dissatisfaction upon rejoining the Sichuan team, as she was
only able to participate in two matches per year, earning a meager monthly
salary of just $83. Such a salary is exceptionally low for an athlete, leading
Pi Hongyan to contemplate retirement. It was at this juncture that a Danish
badminton club approached Pi Hongyan, offering her a place in the league in
Denmark, along with a substantial monthly salary of $1,000. Driven by her
passion for badminton, Pi Hongyan made the decision to embark on a new chapter
in her badminton career abroad. Eventually, in 2004, she obtained a French
passport and represented the French team in the Olympic badminton competition.
Presently, Pi Hongyan has retired from competitive play and has transitioned
into a role as a badminton coach.