At the Hangzhou Asiad, a timeless Chusovitina tale dazzles spectators

Oksana Chusovitina draws attention whenever she participates in a gymnastics competition. Asian Games in Hangzhou were no different.

When the 48-year-old Uzbek gymnast competed in the Asiad women’s gymnastics qualifier at Huanglong Gymnasium on Monday, hundreds of fans screamed for “Qiu Ma,” which translates to “Mother Chusovitina.” According to Xinhua, a large group of journalists gathered in the mixed zone in anticipation of an interview opportunity.

“Chusovitina’s tale moved me. Zhang Anqi, a resident of Hangzhou who attended the ceremony, claimed that she attempted to rescue her kid and just never gave up.

“I’m fortunate to see her in my hometown. She is stunning in all her roles as a mother and an athlete, Zhang said.

Chusovitina finished her vault, gave the crowd a kiss, and made the “heart” sign with her hands.

The people’s affection and support, according to Chusovitina, “keep me going and give me the strength to achieve more.”

“I didn’t feel particularly confident in my performance tonight. Actually, I think I got a bit too enthusiastic,” she said.

The Asian Games have a long history with Chusovitina, who has won eight medals there, including two golds in 2002. She wants to win a medal in the vault this year. She said, “I’m going to make the final harder.”

In 1992, Chusovitina made her Olympic debut while competing for the former Soviet Union’s Unified Team. She then campaigned for office in Uzbekistan, changed her nationality to German in 2006, and then returned her Uzbek nationality in 2013.

After learning that Chusovitina’s kid had leukemia in 2002, she chose to become a German citizen in order to compete internationally for a higher salary and superior medical care. She said, “I dare not grow old until you are well,” and this feeling has touched many people.

Chusovitina resumed her gymnastics career after her son’s recovery out of pure passion for the sport. Even though she declared her retirement after the 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, she ultimately made the decision to come back.

“My desire is my strongest motivator. I’d want to act. I have a passion for gymnastics, and I like my job very much. Why should I quit doing what I’m already doing for love? stated Chusovitina.