(August 5, 2008)

(Yan Xiaohua, sports commentator from CCTV.)

With the approach of the Beijing Olympic Games, we often see people not excited and happy but rather nervous and stressed, especially the people working on the Olympics.

One of my friends who is reporting on the Games said he could not fall asleep. I’m thinking if even the reporters cannot sleep, what about those athletes that will compete in the field?

I remember once I saw an interview that after winning the 110m hurdles in the 2004 Olympic Games, Liu Xiang was asked whether he slept well before the competition and he said “I slept very well, it was just like a usual day.”

Liu’s answer was the same one year later after he won the gold medal in the world championships.

Another dialogue between Liu and a reporter also impressed me.

Reporter: Do you think you can break the world record this time?

Liu: I’ve never thought about this question.

R: Are you aiming for the gold medal?

L: I will try my best.

R: Do you feel the pressure?

L: The Olympic Games are just a game.

NBA star Yao Ming showed a similar attitude before the Games.

When asked about his feelings regarding competing against the American team, Yao said, the American team is the strongest in the world. If we defeat them, I can retire now.” Yao knows they could never beat the dream team but his humor showcases his good psychological state.

Both Liu and Yao said any competition is just a game, and the Olympic Games are truly a good opportunity to play. If their attitude of putting the pressures aside is in the spirit of the game, why don’t we enjoy it? 

Beijing Olympics are about welcoming friends from all over the world rather than facing daunting opponents.