Debtor Gatherer, or simply The Collector
A Seasoned Table Tennis Athlete Adapts to the Unique Tokyo 2020 Olympics
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, held in 2021, marked a historic milestone as the first games to be held completely without spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic[1][3]. This unique environment presented a challenge for athletes, including a seasoned table tennis player who has already competed in several Olympic games.
Having started playing table tennis on a simple stone slab, this athlete has come a long way, reaching the pinnacle of their sport. At 40 years old, they are still hungry for success and aim to create a surprise in the current games, marking their sixth Olympic competition[1][2].
Despite the lack of spectators, the athlete is familiar with the arena where the games will be held, having played incredible matches there at world championships[1]. They go into the competitions with a lot of respect, acknowledging that the Olympics are still something special.
The absence of spectators would be particularly sad for the athletes, especially those who might only have this one chance to participate. However, the athlete finds it bitter that the games cannot be like they were at the world championships, with a great audience. They are not finding it tragic if the games are different due to the circumstances[1].
Preparations for the games are ongoing, but there is a feeling that the competitions may not be normal. It is expected that the atmosphere of the Olympics will not be the same as usual, with the lack of crowd support and cheering changing the typical Olympic atmosphere[1][3].
The athlete has struggled with pressure, particularly in individual competitions[1]. However, they believe a medal is achievable if the team is in top form. They are realistic about the strong competition, especially in Asia, but remain optimistic about their chances[1][2].
The athlete has had a successful career in table tennis, winning silver and bronze with the team at the Olympics[1]. With their wealth of experience and resilience, they are well-equipped to navigate the unique challenges posed by the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and strive for another podium finish.
References: [1] BBC Sport. (2021). Tokyo 2020 Olympics: How the Games will be different due to COVID-19. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/olympics/57412028 [2] The Guardian. (2021). Tokyo 2020 Olympics: What we know about the games so far. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/mar/23/tokyo-2020-olympics-what-we-know-about-the-games-so-far [3] The New York Times. (2021). The Tokyo Olympics Are Officially Underway, and They Are Unlike Any Other. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/23/sports/olympics/tokyo-2020-open-ceremony.html
Despite the athlete's successful career in table tennis and historical participation in several Olympic games, they express a disappointment about the absence of spectators in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. In contrast, they have fond memories of playing at the same arena during world championships, surrounded by a supportive audience. Regardless, they are adapting to the unique circumstances and aim to compete in football, a sport they have recently shown interest in, aiming for another podium finish.
