When it comes to the world of backstroke swimming, one name that immediately springs to mind for avid sports fans is none other than China's Xu Jiayu.
Despite a lackluster debut at the London 2023 Olympics, this 28-year-old veteran bounced back to win a silver medal in the 100m backstroke event at Rio 2016. He followed that up with another silver in the 4x100m mixed medley at the Tokyo Olympics.
Xu's form has remained consistently strong in recent years. At the Hangzhou Asian Games, he effortlessly claimed the gold medal in the men's 100m backstroke final, clocking an impressive time of 52.05 seconds, which firmly secured his spot at the top of the best performances in that event for the season.
During China's National Swimming Championships in April, which also served as the Olympic trials, he continued to showcase his prowess by winning the 100m with a time of 52.39 seconds, ranking fourth in the world for the year. It's worth noting that Xu only narrowly trailed American swimming sensation Ryan Murphy, who recorded a time of 52.22 seconds in the Olympic trials.
China's Xu Jiayu during the men's 100m backstroke final at the National Swimming Championships in Shenzhen, China, April 21, 2024. /CFP
Xu's exceptional performances have extended to the World Championships as well. He clinched gold in the 100m backstroke at both the 2017 and 2019 championships, and this year, he triumphed in the 4x100m mixed medley event.
Over the course of eight years, Xu has secured three world championship titles, overcoming injury setbacks along the way. This arduous and solitary journey has shaped him into a resilient warrior.
"As athletes, or rather, as Chinese athletes, by the time we reach 28, 29, or 30 years old, we may be confronted with retirement," Xu told China Media Group (CMG). "However, in recent years, we have witnessed numerous athletes in their 30s continuously shattering barriers. We hope to see more of these exceptional cases."
"Competitive sports entail more than just battling opponents," he added. "It's equally important to challenge oneself against past performances. Personally, I aspire to make significant breakthroughs in my own records. Creating and surpassing records has been a lifelong dream of mine."
China's Xu Jiayu displays his gold medal after winning the men's 100m backstroke final at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, September 25, 2023. /CFP
Starting from July 27, the Paris Olympics will feature a nine-day swimming program, and Xu will be vying for victory in three events: the men's 100m backstroke, the men's 4x100m mixed medley relay, and the men's and women's 4x100m mixed medley relay. In all three events, both Xu and Team China possess the strength to contend for medals, and perhaps even gold.
Reflecting on his upcoming fourth Olympic Games, Xu remarked: "Each Olympic Games brings forth a unique experience, and this time around, the journey to Paris feels particularly distinct."
"In the past, when I was younger and competing, I felt like I had older teammates leading the charge. Even if my performance fell short, they would hold the line. But now, as a seasoned veteran, all eyes are on me. It's only when I excel that the entire team can thrive."
Concluding with his signature humor, Xu quipped, "To be honest, my teammates are all incredibly strong. My sole focus is to ensure I don't lag behind. Going forward, I will give it my all!"