Zhu Yuling, the Champion of Women's Singles at the 21st Women's Table Tennis World Cup in 2017 is to take the post of an associate professor at Tianjin University’s Department of Physical Education. Zhu made her first debut at the university on April 2, 2023 while delivering a lecture to nearly 200 students and teachers.

Zhu Yuling is the 107th world champion of China’s national table tennis team. She once reigned as the world number one in women’s singles and won a total of 10 world championships, 11 Asian championships and 6 national championships.

“I have been longing to join a university for quite some time and it is high on my agenda. To join Tianjin University is a fate I enjoy and an opportunity I value very much,” said Zhu during her lecture.

Zhu Yuling delivers a lecture entitled "You have unlimited possibilities".

It was her first public speech in front of students and teachers and she admitted that she was very nervous.

“I am not a genius; my story can be replicated.” Zhu said, “You all have unlimited possibilities.” Her words roused a warm round of applauses from the audience.

Zhu Yuling also talked about her lot with the port city, Tianjin. “Tianjin has witnessed several significant moments in my career.” While attending the national table tennis talent training in Tianjin in January 2008, Zhu was discovered by the national team, henceforth embarking on her journey as a professional player. Later, the Tianjin National Games in September 2017 saw Zhu win her first and only gold medal at the Games when she helped the Sichuan team win the women’s team championship for the first time in history. Then, in this spring of 2023, Zhu Yuling renewed her relationship with Tianjin by joining Tianjin University.

Zhu Yuling plays table tennis with members from Tianjin University’s Table tennis team, and signs autographs for fans at the event.

Zhu Yuling signs autography for table tennis fans.

Facing the role change from a world champion to a university teacher, Zhu Yuling stated that she would have a higher requirements on herself, “I expect to improve myself in all aspects so as to set a role model for my students. On the new journey, I will stay humble and fulfill my duties.”

By Mo Jingwen

Editor: Eva Yin