by Simon Daish
The Singapore Table Tennis Association (STTA) made a stunning statement in October 2016, when the national governing body announced that Feng Tianwei’s previous contract would not be renewed.
Since then news has emerged that a new deal was reached between Feng Tianwei and the STTA in January of this year, and the Singapore athlete has also been selected to represent the country at the 2017 South East Asia Games.
Speaking at the T2 Asia-Pacific League press day on Tuesday 27th June, Feng stated that while the experience has at times been difficult she never considered calling an early stop to her table tennis career following the decision of the STTA.
“Table tennis still plays a very central role in my life, so when I experienced tough times in these few months, I have never thought of quitting or retiring. That would have been a simple and direct decision but, to me, it was not the best choice. When you meet with a difficult situation, you just look for a solution. You don’t quit!”, Feng Tianwei.
Feng also gave an insight into how she has been living her life as an independent athlete.
Training and arranging sparring session with other players are just some of Feng’s responsibilities, and the Singapore star is taking a positive approach to the new situation.
“It was a steep learning curve, some aspects were smooth and others I had to learn how to get help. These have been good tests of my ability to collaborate with others”, Feng Tianwei.
With just over 50 days to go until the 2017 SEA Games get underway in Kuala Lumpur, players from across Asia are busy preparing for the event.
Feng Tianwei is one of those athletes heading to the 29th edition of the competition, and is hopeful that her appearance in Kuala Lumpur will lead to many more opportunities to represent the Singapore national team.
“Singapore built me to what I am today, and continues to support me for my international competitions. Singapore has given me a lot and I still hope to represent Singapore on the international stage. I am very keen to do that and I hope to continue my career”, Feng Tianwei.
Source: The New Paper