Asian Games: Sun Yang’s mental strength helps him endure exhausting schedule after shock relay call-up for China in Jakarta
Three-time Olympic swimming champion is receiving nightly treatment on his back as he looks forward to his favourite event, the men’s 1,500 metres freestyle
Exhausted China superstar Sun Yang said his ability to stay mentally strong is helping him endure a draining schedule at the Asian Games after he was surprisingly called up for the men’s 4x100 metres team.
Sun, who is aiming for his fourth individual medal in Jakarta in Friday’s 1,500m freestyle, swam third on Wednesday as China finished second to Japan in the relay – Sun’s second silver after the 4x200m relay event.
The 26-year-old said this week that he would battle through pain for his country’s cause in the pool. But he admitted that his schedule – so far five events – is taking its toll after he was up until 2am on Wednesday morning receiving treatment for his back and thinking he would have two days to rest before being told he was marked down for relay duty.
“I woke up in the morning only to receive notice that I was in the 4x100m relay squad,” said Sun, who was ever-willing to answer the call. “And then I prepared for it. It was four days in a row I swam but even though I’m tired I feel good and try to keep myself fit with exercise.