Hong Kong athletes advised to boost mental resilience in preparation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Hong Kong's table tennis duo, Doo Hoi-kem and Wong Chun-ting, may need to focus on strengthening their mental fortitude to remain competitive in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, coach Li Ching suggests. The pair, who have been partners for a decade, claimed a fourth bronze medal in the mixed doubles at this week's ITTF World Table Tennis Championships. Li acknowledged their adversaries have thoroughly analyzed them, making competition increasingly arduous.
However, Doo and Wong reached the semi-finals in Doha before succumbing to Japan's Satsuki Odo and Maharu Yoshimura in a 3-1 defeat. Li praised the pair's tenacity and determination, but expressed a desire for further advancements, particularly in terms of their mental toughness.
"They can continue to fight," Li said. "Improvement in techniques and strategies is always possible, but mental strength is crucial. It's about sheer determination, willpower, and an unyielding passion for table tennis. They must be ready to put in extra effort."
Doo and Wong earned their first world championships medal together in 2015, followed by more accolades in 2017 and 2023. To prepare for the challenges of the 2028 Olympics, the pair might consider the following strategies:
- Mental preparation, such as visualization techniques and breathing exercises to manage stress.
- Learning from past performances and seeking feedback from coaches or experienced players.
- Simulation training with high-pressure situations in their practice sessions.
- Maintaining consistency in performance.
- Building a strong support system within their team and considering working with mental health professionals.
- Adapting strategies during matches and maintaining a positive mindset.
"Doo and Wong may find it beneficial to incorporate mental health practices into their training routine, promoting mental toughness essential for their upcoming competitions. This could include techniques like visualization, breathing exercises to manage stress, and seeking feedback from coaches or experienced players to learn from past performances."
"In addition, they might consider focusing on health-and-wellness, not just physical fitness, for a holistic approach to sports. This could involve simulation training with high-pressure situations, maintaining consistency in performance, building a strong support system, and potentially working with mental health professionals to help adapt strategies during matches and maintain a positive mindset."
