Was at Suntec City today, specifically Carrefour, at around 6pm. Whole crowds gathered around the TV screens to watch Li Jia Wei play the semi-finals. The first few matches were fantastic, with her forcing her N. Korean opponent to a 11-0 set at a point. The last few matches were painful to watch. Especially the final one. Both players were closely tied, but Li eventually lost out by 2 points. The collective sigh from the crowd was immense. Much more was at stake than a Silver/ Gold medal for Singapore. It was the abject disappointment for a sportsperson who has overcome so much and came so close, only to be denied by two points. My heart goes out to Li... Whatever the outcome of the Bronze position match, I believe she has outdone herself so far, and deserve no less than the greatest respect and encouragement from all of us.
There are some who feel that there is no glory in winning since she's a mainland Chinese by blood. I'd like to hear those people say the same thing when it comes around to soccer games like the EPL. Even better. Let them represent Singapore instead. Those who sit idle on their arses while players like Li battle their heart out do not deserve to pass judgement. Either make a tangible contribution (oratorical bravado counts for nothing) or hold your silence and accord basic respect to those who play.
Kudos to the SG Olympics Team!