Leung Yi Hang (2nd L) and Lee Mang Hin (5th L) of Hong Kong, China pose for photo with volunteers at the Chengdu Universiade.
Despite an exit in the second round of men's doubles at the Chengdu Universiade, tennis athletes from Hong Kong, China are aiming high off the court.
CHENGDU, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) -- As the tennis courts buzz with dreams of aspiring professional players at the Chengdu Universiade, the duo from Hong Kong, China stand out with a different vision.
"Tennis is a hobby, but I have no intention of playing professionally at all," Lee Mang Hin said with unwavering determination.
The 20-year-old and his partner Leung Yi Hang have set their sights on fulfilling their passion beyond the court. Lee aims to join the Hong Kong Police Inspectors after completing his studies in Australia, while Leung dreams of becoming a dentist, inspired by his uncle's career.
Leung Yi Hang in training at the Chengdu Universiade.
Leung believes that even as they pursue their respective careers, tennis will remain an integral part of their lives. "Honing my will through tennis will make my life more meaningful," said Leung.
Tennis might not be as popular in Hong Kong as basketball and football, but for Lee, it runs in the family. His parents represented Hong Kong in important events and introduced him to tennis at the age of five. Initially uninterested and prone to losing his temper during practice, Lee experimented with other sports like table tennis and badminton.
However, he ultimately returned to the court after six months, deciding it was the right fit for him. "I realized tennis was my own decision, not my parents'," said Lee, reflecting on his early struggles.
The duo's commitment to tennis has shaped their positive outlook on life. Lee has competed in various tournaments around the Asia-Pacific region and is always eager to embrace the local culture and customs during travels.
"I have made many friends because of tennis," Lee remarked. "This sport has also improved my physical fitness and consciousness, which I believe will be of great help in my future work."
Lee Mang Hin hits a return in training at the Chengdu Universiade.
In the ongoing Chengdu Universiade, the duo showcased incredible perseverance in the second round of men's doubles. They fought tenaciously against the No. 7 seed Portuguese team for two hours and 23 minutes but narrowly lost with a 12-10 final set on Tuesday. "I rate our performance 9.9 points, and I am very satisfied. The only regret is that we missed the match point," said Leung.
As the Universiade draws to a close for them, they plan to continue cheering for teammates still in competition and indulge in the famous Sichuan hot pot. Though the lights may dim on the court, the fire in their hearts for their chosen paths will continue to burn brightly, propelling them toward success in their futures.
Lee now understands the intention behind his parents' early encouragement to play tennis. "If I have children in the future, I would gladly pass on tennis and its life lessons to them." ■