Meet our newest sponsored player, Gui Lin! She started playing table tennis at age 8 because she was always sick as a child. Her parents wanted her to participate in a sport, so that she could grow stronger. Since picking up her first table tennis racket, she has never looked back.
Some of her most recent achievements include winning 2 silver medals at the 2015 Pan American Games and representing Brazil at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. We caught up with her to ask a few questions about her experience is a professional athlete, her goals, and her favorite thing about being a part of Team JOOLA!
What was your most memorable moment of Rio 2016?
When I was going to the table for my first match in the main draw, I could hear the fans cheering loudly. I could feel the love and support, which really filled me with a sense of positive energy. I’ve never felt anything like it before. I went on to win the match and it was an incredible feeling.
What was the most important thing your coach has taught you?
Have confidence, and always keep your focus on the game.
How do you motivate yourself after a loss or when training gets really difficult?
I prefer going to a quiet place where I can have some time for self-reflection. Sometimes I’ll repeat motivational phrases to gain back my perspective and motivate myself. I really like a phrase by Michael Jordan: I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life, and that is why I succeed.
What is the biggest table tennis achievement you’ve reached?
My 2 Silver medals in the 2015 Pan America Games – one for teams and one for singles. They were both historic wins in that they were the first ever Silver medals for Brazil and I was the first woman Singles Finalist of the Pan America games. I was so happy to have participated in this unprecedented achievement.
What are some goals you’re hoping to achieve this year?
I’m really hoping to compete again in the Pan American Championships and I’d like to be able to retain my titles.
What is something that you’ve learned as a professional athlete that you’d like to pass on to others who aspire to be professional athletes?
Just do it, don’t stress or overthink, just believe you are doing what you love.
What is your favorite part about being a part of Team JOOLA?
It feels like we are one team. JOOLA is always incredibly supportive.
What JOOLA equipment are you currently using?
- Blade: JOOLA Zelebro
- Forehand: JOOLA Golden Tango
- Backhand: JOOLA Rhyzer 48
Gui has been training hard in China this summer and we can’t wait to see what she will accomplish in her table tennis career! If you’re interested in keeping up with what she’s doing, make sure to follow her Instagram @lin_gui!
